PUBLIC consultations opened today on route options for the proposed M20 Limerick to Cork motorway, which include options for enhanced rail connectivity between the two Munster cities.
A progress update briefing hosted by Limerick City and County Council heard two options for the proposed route as well as rail options, which are not mutually exclusive.
Limerick Fine Gael TD Kieran O’Donnell, who attended today’s briefing, said he “favoured” Option 1 which would see the construction of a completely new motorway running parallel to the existing N20 road, and involving six variations along the route.
The proposed motorway from Blarney to Limerick would “deliver on improved safety, reduce travel times, and create important synergies between both cities”, said Deputy O’Donnell.
He said it was “hard to see” how Option 2, which proposes improvements to the existing N20 road, involving options to bypass bottleneck towns such as Buttevant and Charleville, would satisfy all requirements.
Rail routes being considered as part of the overall options up for consultation, would involve the use of existing Charleville-Limerick Junction-Limerick City rail lines, with increased 30 minute frequency; or a new rail line between Charleville and Limerick City using part of existing Limerick to Foynes rail line, with 30 minute frequency; or a new rail line between Charleville and Killonan Junction, Ballysimon, Limerick, using part of existing Limerick/Limerick Junction rail line.
“Importantly, these road and rail options are not mutually exclusive. Indeed, I am advised that there could be a combination of road and rail options, which would be complementary and present exciting opportunities,” said Deputy O’Donnell.
He added, the M20 project was “key to fully unlocking what this region and the western seaboard has to offer as a counter-pole to Dublin and the Eastern seaboard as well as competing on the international stage”.
Public consultation on this stage of the plans will be open until Friday, December 18th via www.corklimerick.ie where the plans can be viewed. Furthermore, the public can book consultations on line or by phone at 061-973730; email: [email protected]; or write by post to N/M20 project office, Lissanalta house, Dooradoyle, Limerick V94H5RR.
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