Go ahead for Adare bypass 'pivotal' ahead of Ryder Cup 2027

LIMERICK Chamber has called for the "immediate start" to the capital works for the €450m Limerick to Foynes Road including the Adare Bypass.

The works were approved by An Bord Pleanála in August of 2022 and had been stalled due to judicial review proceedings. Following discussions between Limerick City and County Council and the three applicants, these proceedings have now been withdrawn from the High Court.

Limerick Chamber is now calling for the immediate start to works given the strategic nature of Foynes Port and also the Ryder Cup in 2027 to be held in Adare.

Dee Ryan, CEO of Limerick Chamber, said the Limerick to Foynes road holds immense significance for the upcoming Ryder Cup in Adare in 2027.

"As a prestigious international sporting event, the Ryder Cup attracts a large influx of participants, spectators, and media from around the world and will give the region a chance to shine on the world stage. The construction of the bypass and wider N69 road serves as a vital link connecting key parts of the region.

"The road’s improved accessibility and enhanced infrastructure will ensure smooth and efficient transportation for players, officials, and visitors alike. It will significantly reduce travel times, alleviate congestion, and enhance the overall event experience," said Ms Ryan, CEO of the largest business representative body in the Mid-West.

She said the seamless connectivity offered by the Limerick to Foynes Road will not only make it easier for participants to access the tournament venue but also facilitate the exploration of the surrounding region, including its hotels, restaurants, and attractions which will be key for local business.

"Limerick Chamber would now like to see works begin on the project as a matter of urgency and we look forward to keeping businesses updated on the progress through Limerick Chamber’s strategic development pipeline," said Ms Ryan. 

Miriam O’Connor, president of Limerick Chamber, said the Limerick to Foynes Road represents a pivotal moment for businesses in our region.

"This infrastructure development holds immense importance as it addresses crucial transportation challenges and unlocks a multitude of opportunities for the region. The road acts as a lifeline for businesses, facilitating smooth and efficient movement of goods, services, and employees.

"When completed, the N69 project will provide a safer link for Shannon Foynes Port to the national road network and given the significant potential for offshore renewable energy along the West coast and into the Shannon Estuary it will provide the region with a competitive edge. The Chamber would now like to see works begin on the project so the region can continue to attract investment, encourage job creation, and foster a vibrant business ecosystem," said Ms O'Connor.

BREAKING: Green light for multi-million Adare bypass as objections withdrawn

Limerick City and County Council welcomed the withdrawal of objections as "it permits the proposed project to progress to the next stage of delivery and ultimately to connect the core port of Foynes to the motorway network near Limerick".

"The proposed road is vital for the strategic development and expansion of Shannon Foynes Port, for West Limerick and the Mid-West Region in general and will be implemented as expeditiously as possible," said a council spokesperson.

The road is comprised of the construction of approximately 15.6km of dual carriageway from Foynes to Rathkeale (with approximately 1.9km of single carriageway road between Ballyclogh and Askeaton) along with the construction of approximately 17.5Km of motorway to connect Rathkeale to the existing Motorway network at Attyflin (N21/N20/M20 junction).

"This project will include a bypass of Adare, which will run to the north of the village, and it will remove in the region of 70 – 80% of the traffic currently passing through the village (circa 17,000 vehicles/day). The proposed road is vital to improve safety and remove traffic delays. There will also be a new heavy goods vehicle service area near Foynes.

"Limerick City and County Council is very conscious that approximately 200 landholdings (including nine dwelling houses and approximately 105 farms) are impacted by the proposed road. Limerick City and County Council will be contacting all impacted landholders and householders over the next few weeks.

Limerick City and County Council will continue to work closely with Transport Infrastructure Ireland to deliver the project as expeditiously as possible," said the spokesperson.