A further section of the N22 Macroom bypass opens tomorrow but there is controversy locally as it will mean the closure of a temporary roundabout forcing motorists to return to driving through Macroom town.
The new 8 kilometre section between Carrigaphooka, west of Macroom, and Tún Láin to the east of Baile Mhic Íre will see the bypassing of the notorious bad bends near Lissacreasig.
But the opening of the second phase of the bypass also means the removal of a temporary roundabout at Carrigaphooka, where the first phase of the bypass currently meets the old road.
Its removal has sparked a petition for slip-road access at the location, amid fears businesses would lose passing trade and heavy goods traffic would return to Macroom.
The 'Access to Macroom Bypass' petition has been initiated by Cill na Martra businessman Lars Edman, attracting large support locally and online.
Local politicians have raised the issue in the Dáil, while Macroom Municipal District Council is to write to Transport Infrastructure Ireland seeking access retention.
The remaining 6 kilometres of the 22 kilometre dual-carriageway is on target to open at the end of this year.
The first phase of the bypass was opened last December.
