Work has officially begun on the Tulla Road Active Travel Scheme in Ennis, following the appointment of contractors by Clare County Council.

The project commenced on Tuesday, 28 October, marking the start of an 18-month programme to deliver a safer, more accessible route for cyclists, pedestrians and public transport users.

The multi-million scheme will deliver a continuous 2.2km primary cycle route and improved walking and wheeling facilities, connecting St Senan's Road to Hillcrest Junction. It will also include new and upgraded bus stops to strengthen public transport links.

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Key elements of the project include new pedestrian crossings, upgrades to existing crossings, and the introduction of traffic-calming measures such as junction tightening and a raised table at Ballymacahill Junction. The design incorporates one-way segregated cycle tracks on both sides of the road, with shared-use paths in areas where space is limited.

Construction will progress in seven phases, beginning with works from Gort Na mBláth to Hillcrest, expected to take around 12 weeks. Subsequent phases will move sequentially along the route toward St Senan’s Road.

A traffic management system will operate throughout the project, including temporary traffic lights. Work will take place on weekdays from 8am to 6pm and Saturdays from 9am to 1pm, with road-impacting activity restricted to off-peak hours (9.30am–4.30pm Monday to Friday and 9am–1pm Saturday) to minimise disruption during school and commuter periods.

Any night-time works or additional temporary traffic measures will only proceed with prior approval. The contractor has also committed to maintaining alternative access for all properties and ensuring 24-hour emergency access throughout the duration of the scheme.