More than 1,000 submissions received over controversial cycle-lane plan for Limerick

MORE THAN 1,000 groups and individuals have written to the local authority over controversial plans for a cycleway in South Circular Road.

The council’s active travel team want to introduce a segregated cycle lane between South Circular Road, Henry Street and the centre.

The proposals have sharply divided residents, many of whom are appalled by the idea of losing the parking space outside their homes.

A public meeting in Mary Immaculate College drew more than 200 people including local TDs Brian Leddin and Willie O’Dea, Senator Maria Byrne and a number of the city’s councillors.

Due to the fact the plans are being led by Limerick City and County Council and are taking place on public land, it is the role of members of the metropolitan district to decide on whether they go ahead, with a vote expected by February next.

Battle lines drawn over proposed cycle lane in Limerick city centre

Fine Gael councillor Dan McSweeney, one of those present at the meeting in Mary Immaculate College, believes there has been shortcomings in the public consultation process.

“More engagement should have been held on the ground, and it’s something the local authority must now renew and learn from," he said. “There are some serious concerns being raised by local residents in relation to this scheme and it’s important all their views are listened to.

“We can’t impose a scheme that will have a detrimental impact on their daily lives,” he added.

When the plans come before councillors for a vote, they will have three options – to reject the plan outright, to amend the plan, or accept it as presented by the executive.

Those in support of the new cycle lane say it will cut noise and pollution on South Circular Road, stop it being a rat-run, and reduce the chance of accidents.

But it’s the elimination of parking spaces in Henry Street and South Circular Road, plus many lanes feeding into them which sparked concern among business people, while fears for access for emergency vehicles, and the safety of elderly people forced to leave their cars away from their homes were expressed.