Bypass bridge work – no pedestrians allowed until May, 2021

Mallow people who regularly walk the Mallow-Cork bypass road will find their access restricted from next Monday as work begins on a major rehabilitation project on Blackrock Bridge, the first bridge on the Cork side of Annabella roundabout. The work is expected to last until the end of April 2021 at the earliest, and the public will not be allowed to cross the bridge on foot during that time, except for two weeks over Christmas. Pedestrian traffic will also be closed from Annabella roundabout to the bridge, and the footpaths on both sides of the bridge will be off-limits. Cllr Gearóid Murphy told The Mallow Star this week that the work on the bridge is essential, and the contractors will do everything in their power to get it open as soon as possible.
A spokesperson for Transport Infrastructure Ireland said, “We acknowledge that the footpath is a popular walking route and its temporary closure will be an inconvenience to the people of Mallow. However, in order for it to be maintained during construction would require the N20 to be reduced to one lane. Given the traffic volumes on the N20, this approach is not desirable. We would appreciate your understanding of what are necessary restrictions and we will endeavour to expedite the construction times to return the footpath as soon as possible.
“Also, a stop/go system will be in operation at times for vehicular traffic, otherwise it is envisaged that two-way traffic will be maintained. Substantial completion of the overlay and bridge rehabilitation schemes is anticipated by May 2021. This is based on no further Covid 19 restrictions or other constraints, and therefore may be subject to change,” the spokesperson added.