'This is good news for Mallow'

The War of Independence monument in Mallow is to be moved in the coming weeks to, what the council says is, a safer space.

The move is part of Cork County Council’s work on the Mallow Boardwalk project which will start in early August and is expected to continue for a number of weeks.

The planned works will see the installation of new kerbing, footpaths and the laying of ducting along with the relocation of the War of Independence monument from its existing location on the bridge parapet to a safer and purpose built space in a new amenity area on the northern approach to the bridge.

Mayor of the County of Cork Cllr Mary Linehan Foley said: “This is good news for Mallow. The new junction layout will ultimately increase journey speeds, improve pedestrian crossings and increase safety for vehicles turning, especially heavy goods vehicles. The streetscape in this area will be enhanced and the boardwalk gives shared space for cyclists and pedestrians.

“It also reinforces the link between the residential southern area of Mallow and the town centre. It’s especially good news for pedestrians, cyclists and other vulnerable road users on the bridge.”

The works will involve stop and go traffic management including some elements of nighttime works.

While the works are being programmed to minimise traffic disruption, some disruption and delays at the junction of Park Road, Bridge Street and Mallow Bridge, as well as the junction of the N72 and R620, are expected.

Chief Executive of Cork County Council, Tim Lucey said: “The boardwalk, which is funded by Cork County Council and the EU through the Designated Urban Centres Grant Scheme managed by the Southern Assembly, allows for additional traffic turning lanes on the bridge and will greatly improve traffic flow in Mallow.”