The HSE (Health Service Executive) South West is currently assessing the traffic situation into University Hospital Kerry’s (UHK) campus.
At the recent South West Regional Health Forum (RHF) Tralee councillor Deirdre Ferris proposed that the HSE consider developing an additional access point to the grounds of UHK from the southern corridor of the N86.
She said that the current sole access point at Mile Height in Tralee, serves traffic from the N70, N22 and N86, and is a significant black spot.
She said heavy congestion and tailbacks develop near the entrance particularly during peak times, which could delay response times for the National Ambulance Service.
Cllr Ferris said traffic also backs up in the area as cars queue to access a local drive-through restaurant.
Cllr Ferris referred to a proposed connecting road between the Ballybeg and Clash roundabouts and suggested it could provide an opportunity for a second access point to the hospital campus.
She stated that the current access arrangement places considerable pressure on one location and that an additional entrance could improve traffic flow and emergency access.
In their response, the HSE stated that a Development Control Plan (DCP) for UHK is currently being made, to decide how best to layout the campus between now and 2040.
It stated planning permission is currently in place for an ambulance entrance and exit onto the Clash–Ballymullen Road, subject to completion of that road.
Killarney councillor Marie Maloney supported the proposal, highlighting ongoing congestion and parking difficulties on the hospital grounds.
She noted that access to services such as the BreastCheck The National Breast Screening Programme clinic can be particularly challenging due to the lack of parking and traffic congestion.
Members also raised concerns regarding the layout of the public car park and the potential for ambulances to be delayed due to congestion at the main entrance.
Councillors were told the Development Control Plan will also examine wider access options, parking capacity, pedestrian access and active travel routes across the campus.
