First trip West on the Macroom bypass: A smooth ride through the Irish countryside

The bypass is part of a €280m project which will see a new dual carriageway built from the Cork and Kerry border, extending for 22km to the east of Macroom.

It is expected that the Macroom bypass will significantly ease traffic congestion, which has blighted the town for years.

Taoiseach Micheál Martin officially opened the bypass and work will now focus on the remaining 14km of the N22 dual carriageway. That is due for completion in early 2024.


Mr Martin said the bypass will "greatly improve safety and accessibility for local communities who will use this road regularly as well as for those travelling between Cork and Kerry".

"It will encourage economic growth, supporting further investment and employment to the region," the Taoiseach said.

"I look forward to seeing Macroom and the wider region go from strength to strength in the years ahead and wish all who travel on the road a safe journey."

Mayor of Cork County Danny Collins said that today is "a fantastic day" for the people of Macroom.

"Thanks to the bypass, the volume of traffic will decrease by 40%, leading to improved quality of life for residents, businesses and visitors to Macroom," Mr Collins said.

"Now, the urban renewal of Macroom will begin, where motorists travelling between Cork and Kerry will visit the town and properly experience all that Macroom has to offer without worrying about being stuck in traffic.
00:00 approach
00:32 Bypass heading west
07:08 Leaving bypass
09:50 Macroom
14:55 Leaving macroom