New construction contract is finalised to complete Coonagh to Knockalisheen road

WILLS Bros Ltd has been awarded the €31m construction contract for the Coonagh to Knockalisheen Distributor Road Scheme.

Limerick City and County Council announced the news, saying that the project is "a key part of the Limerick Regeneration Framework Implementation Plan" and will resume after construction was previously halted following the receivership of the former contractor.

The works will be delivered in phases, with the dual carriageway between Coonagh and Knockalisheen scheduled to open after the first 12 months. The entire project is expected to be completed in 24 months.

Mayor of Limerick, John Moran said that while it "has taken longer than we would have liked", he is welcoming the advancement of the scheme. 

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"This is a transformative project for the whole northside of Limerick," Mayor Moran said.

"We hit many unexpected hurdles and it has taken longer than we would all have liked but I want to acknowledge and thank everyone who stayed focused and helped push this outcome in time for Christmas. 

"No community in Limerick should live on a cul-de-sac and this access is a key change for the Moyross of the future.

"It is a vital step forward in the delivery of the Limerick Regeneration programme. The opening of the dual carriageway within the first 12 months will mark an exciting milestone for the community."

The works include: 2.1km of new urban dual carriageway road with two 7.0m carriageways, footways, cycleways, verges, and embankment construction works.

1.8km of major improvements to an existing urban single carriageway road with footways, cycleways, and verges, 0.35km of minor improvements to existing roads with footways and verges.

1km of minor improvements to existing rural single carriageway roads, two road-over-railway bridges, including the completion of one bridge currently at deck level, three new roundabouts and six signal-controlled pedestrian crossings.

The contract also includes significant associated works such as: Pedestrian and cyclist crossing facilities compliant with DMURS standards. Diversion of live services, including foul sewers, watermains, gas mains, ESB, and telecoms.

New surface water sewer and foul sewer systems, earthworks, safety barrier installations, and landscaping. Masonry and reinforced concrete retaining walls, reinforced earth retaining walls, and culverts.

Road pavements, kerbing, and construction of footways and cycleways, traffic signs, road markings, and road lighting and Project Supervisor Construction Stage (PSCS) duties and traffic management.

This critical infrastructure project will deliver improved connectivity, support future economic development, and enhance the quality of life for communities in Moyross and the surrounding areas.

Minister for Transport, Eamon Ryan said the development "is just one part of the transport jigsaw for the area" and that future plans are already in sight for a rail network with a new station at Moyross.

“This is another important step towards ensuring better connectivity and regeneration in northern Limerick," he said.

"However, the development of this road is just one part of the transport jigsaw for the area.

"We can add in the rail plans, with a new station at Moyross, which will also serve as a catalyst for regeneration of the area and which will support the national strategic objective of compact growth as outlined in the National Development Plan."

Cllr Kieran O’Hanlon, Cathaoirleach of the Metropolitan District of Limerick, is looking forward to seeing the development taking shape: "We are dedicated to enhancing connectivity and revitalising the northside of Limerick City.

"The awarding of the Coonagh to Knockalisheen Distributor Road project to Wills Bros Ltd marks a significant milestone in Limerick's regeneration journey, enhancing benefits for the local community and the broader region."

Director general of Limerick City and County Council, Dr Pat Daly, says the new road will open up opportunities. 

"We are delighted to see this key infrastructure project moving ahead," he said.

"The new road will unlock economic and social opportunities for Moyross and the wider area, providing improved access to essential services, employment, and educational facilities.

"This investment highlights our commitment to delivering enhanced mobility, safety, and connectivity for all road users."