Thomas Gould (Cork North-Central, Sinn Fein)
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227. To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he is aware of ongoing issues with traffic in Glanmire due to delays to the flood relief scheme and when this will be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4790/25]

Kevin Moran (Longford-Westmeath, Independent)
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The Office of Public Works (OPW) in partnership with Cork City Council are engaging proactively to progress the Glashaboy (Sallybrook/Glanmire) Flood Relief Scheme for Glanmire. The Glashaboy Flood Relief Scheme includes the construction of new walls and earthen embankments, upgrades to existing culverts, the replacement of an existing bridge with a reinforced bridge at Hazelwood Shopping Centre, clearance of bridge eyes at Riverstown Bridge, channel widening, road re-grading and associated drainage works. The scheme, when complete, will provide flood protection to some 103 properties; 78 residential properties and 25 commercial premises, and will address the flood risk in a number of locations in the Glanmire area. The proposed scheme is designed to provide protection against a 1 in 100-Year fluvial flood.

In June 2023, following a successful tender competition, Cork City Council awarded the works contract to Sorensen Civil Engineering for the construction of the Glashaboy Flood Relief Scheme. In July 2023 Sorensen Civil Engineering mobilised to site. The construction programme is anticipated to take 32 months from commencement with works divided into several zones to minimise disruption to the public and businesses. The construction works are progressing according to programme.

The OPW understands that flood defence works will continue across multiple locations in Glanmire, Riverstown and Sallybrook throughout 2025, a number of which will require traffic management at different stages due to construction within and under the public roads. These areas include New Line Road, Blossomgrove Road, Hazelwood Road, the R639, and Hazelwood and Crestfield centres.

During this time, various temporary traffic management measures will be necessary. However, every effort will be made to minimise the impact on the local community and commuters. Regular updates are posted on the project website which set out upcoming traffic management arrangements, and the contractor has implemented a text alert system to provide weekly updates, as well as a drop-in monthly clinic for residents to discuss their queries or concerns. The OPW will continue to work closely with Cork City Council on the delivery of the Glashaboy Flood Relief Scheme. The scheme is being funded from the €1.3 billion in flood relief measures under the Government’s National Development Plan.