This module examines the integration of national, regional and local land use planning with transportation planning and its implications on the assessment, design and planning of the road and public transport network. It is concerned with the promotion and implementation through the planning process of active and sustainable transport facilities and policies, the design of urban and rural roads and streets to meet the needs of all users. This module also investigates the national, regional and local policies and strategies for the future funding of the land transportation network and guidance for the protection of the strategic road and rail network in relation to development control and zoning. The module also deals with traffic and transport assessments for development control and the promotion of sustainable modes of transport. The requirement for strategic environmental assessments of proposals from county and regional development plans are also studied.

1. Interpret the significance and role of transportation planning in the land use planning process
2. Determine and assess the requirements and procedures for national planning for investment in land transportation infrastructure.
3. Assess the options and guidance for the design of sustainable, efficient and integrated urban street networks.
4. Determine and evaluate the requirements for the promotion of sustainable forms of transport to meet the needs of all users.
5. Critically evaluate the methodologies for traffic and transport assessments as part of the development control and planning process.
6. Assess and evaluate the requirements for local area plans, county development plans and regional planning in relation to the provision of sustainable transport systems and to evaluate the strategic environmental impact of the implementation of such plans.

The module examines aspects of geotechnical engineering including: Site investigations, fill materials and compaction, asset management strategies, overall stability of geotechnical structures, embankments on poor ground, temporary works and selection of appropriate geotechnical parameters for use in design.

1. Create a specification for, and evaluate the findings of, a site investigation.

2. Construct a ground model and determine suitable design soil parameters based on the analysis and evaluation of site investigation data.

3. Appraise the suitability of materials and follow good construction practice in earthworks, while recognising the physical constraints on site.

4. Identify and propose solutions for potential geotechnical engineering issues associated with infrastructure assets.

5. Analyse and design embankments on problematic soils and slopes associated with earthworks.

This module requires the learner to identify, appraise and critically evaluate bridge management systems and structural inspection and assessment techniques for bridges and associated infrastructure. In addition, the learner will be required to apply and evaluate these techniques in the assessment and inspection of the existing bridge stock.

1. Derive an understanding of bridge construction history, bridge types and construction techniques, including masonry arch construction, reinforced and prestressed concrete, and steel and composite construction.
2. Critically assess and evaluate bridge management systems, including appraising and advising on any limitations associated with the management systems and bridge inspection, assessment, and maintenance strategies.
3. Evaluate, select and apply appropriate bridge (and associated structures) inspection and assessment techniques to determine appropriate data for the design of appropriate maintenance strategies, repair and strengthening of bridges.
4. Critically evaluate the application of bridge (and associated structures) repair, strengthening and modification techniques for concrete, steel and masonry bridges and assess their environmental and heritage implications.

5. Effectively collaborate and communicate with others in the inspection and assessment of bridges (and associated structures).

This module aims to introduce the nature and importance of contracts and specifications in the context of Roads Engineering. This course examines the contracts and specifications used in the industry in Ireland, specifically examining the Public Works Contracts and their structure.

The module also will examine in detail the roles, responsibilities and powers of roads authorities as set out under the Roads Acts and defined by relevant case law. Learners will be introduced to the Law of Negligence and how it relates to roadworks including potential liabilities.

1. Critically analyse and evaluate the key provisions of Irish Road Legislation and demostrate the ability to interpret and give reasoned advice on the same.

2. Evaluate the impact of the law of negligence and the imposition liabilities with respect to roads authortites

3. Critically assess varying forms of contract and contrast with the Public Works Contract in relation to the incorporation ofterms and conditionsrelating to theexposure, transfer and mitigation of risk.
4. Demonstrate knowledge and applied understanding of issues that underpin and influence both contract and procurement of Roads Networks. Critically analyse the key conceptsthat may arise fromparticular procurement options.
5. Critically evaluate the standard dosuments in use in the preperation of Contract Documentation and specifications

This module examines the requirements for road safety, traffic control and signing, and road lighting for the provision of a safe and effective road network for all users. The use of Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS), traffic-calming and road junction operation and control systems to provide safe and sustainable travel for all road users on the public road network is also examined. The requirements and implementation of EU Road Infrastructure Safety Management Directive for the rural and urban road network and speed limit assessments and changes are also key components.

1. Review and investigate the characteristics of the road network and the roles of the authorities responsible for the control and management of the network.
2. Critique the requirements for traffic signs and road markings for rural and urban road networks.
3. Formulate the requirements of vehicular traffic, pedestrians, cyclists and other vulnerable road users at traffic signal controlled and other road junctions and crossing facilities.
4. Appraise the requirements of road and street lighting andIntelligent Transport Systems to efficiently and safely control and manage the road network.

5. Evaluate the procedures for the implementation of road safety policies and procedures for the assessment of the safety of both new and legacy road infrastructure for the safe and efficient transit of both vehicular and non-motorised users.
6. Investigate sustainable methodologies for the provision of engineering, traffic calming measures and speed limit assessment to reduce road accidents on the urban and rural road network.

This module focuses on the materials, technology and procedures used to design and manage road pavements, with reference to the Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) and Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport (DTTS) documentation.

1. Characterise and appraise the suitability of materials used in pavement construction and rehabilitation.

2. Formulate the fundamental engineering principlesunderpinning pavement structural design.

3. Design flexible, rigid and non-conventional pavements.

4. Assess pavement performance and implement pavement management processes.

5. Diagnose/interpret pavement distress and formulate appropriate maintenance and rehabilitation treatments