Estuary Business Park

Estuary Building Photo

Estuary Business Park, Carrigaline, Co. Cork

This 30m diameter roundabout was designed and constructed as part of the development of the Estuary Business Park, Carrigaline on behalf of the development section of Cork County Council. Following a tender design competition, where applicants were required to submit potential designs for the site in question in addition to their fee proposal, MHL Consulting Engineers were appointed to carry out the detailed design of the site in accordance with the preliminary layout submitted.

Design Elements

The site is located adjacent to the R612 Crosshaven Road on the outskirts of Carrigaline. Given its proximity to the Owenaboy River and its associated estuary the flooding potential of the site had to be determined at an early stage. To this end a comprehensive flood study was carried out in association with Cork County Council and the impact of developing the lands assessed. A minimum finished design level for the various infrastructural elements was set accounting for the impact of global warming on tidal patterns into the future. This was followed by a detailed site investigation study to determine the level of imported fill required. In this instance it was possible to balance the cut  & fill requirements of the site with capping material being the only imported earthworks required. To comply with sustainable urban drainage systems (SUDS) and to enhance the environmental quality of the site open ponds were incorporated for storm water retention. This system was designed in association with the Irish Fisheries Board to minimise disturbance to the existing river bed. During dry periods the ponds were designed to become a wetlands area with intensive planting of reeds and other water based plants being carried out. The result was a habitat for wildlife birds as well as being an amenity for the site. The construction of the infrastructural elements of the site was carried out by Martin O'Callaghan Contractor following a competitive tendering process. The development of the site took 1.0 year and was completed on time and within budget. To date a number of sites have been sold and buildings erected.

Client: Cork County Council Development Section

Cost: €1.7million