PLANS are afoot to tackle traffic congestion in County Limerick and create a easier access to key routes with better connectivity for motorists, cyclists, and walkers.
The N21 Newcastle West Road Scheme and N21 Abbeyfeale Road Scheme were announced this week, a joined venture by Limerick City and County Council, Transport Infrastructure Ireland, and the Department of Transport.
There will be an opportunity for the public to have their say on the plans, as well as to make comments and suggestions.
According to the Council, the plans will “relieve congestion on the N21 Limerick to Tralee Road through Newcastle West and Abbeyfeale”.
A design update for the schemes was published this week, outlining the proposed mainlines, side road realignments, and junction layouts, as well as whether the roads are in cut or on fill.
It also shows the proposed access arrangements, indicative land take lines, watercourse diversions, and the location of drainage ponds and other details.
The Council said that the schemes align with Mayor John Moran’s More for Limerick 2024-2029 programme and national-level policies, including the National Planning Framework and National Development Plan, which priorities balanced regional development and infrastructure investment.
The local authority said the plans reflect that “towns like Adare, Abbeyfeale, and Newcastle West need to see progress on bypasses, which allow the centre of those towns to breathe and prosper again”.
“The Limerick Development Plan highlights the N21 projects as crucial for Limerick’s economic, social, and sustainable growth,” the statement from the Council said.
“The National Planning Framework acknowledges the significant roles of towns like Newcastle West and Abbeyfeale, which provide employment and functions beyond their population size.”
The Council added that “the proposed N21 Newcastle West and N21 Abbeyfeale Road Schemes aim to enhance transport connectivity and provide efficient access to other strategic national roads, including the N23 and N22 to the south and the M20, N18/M18, M7 and N24 to the north and east”.
Each project is expected to have positive benefits on the urban environments of Newcastle West and Abbeyfeale and improve the quality of life of commuters and local residents. The projects offer opportunities to provide safe, segregated cycling and walking facilities and to integrate with the wider active travel networks, such as the Limerick Greenway.
The Council has called on the public to make observations on the plans, which will be considered during the coming design development of the schemes.
Submissions can be made by email to [email protected] or [email protected], or by post to Mid West National Road Design Office, Lissanalta House, Dooradoyle, Limerick, V94 H5RR.
Information on both schemes can be requested by calling the Mid West National Road Design Office on 061 951 000.
