Design update on bypasses for Limerick towns on N21 route

A NEW design update has been published on the N21  Newcastle West and Abbeyfeale bypasses with plans for the major schemes to be submitted to An Bord Pleanala early next year.

Limerick City and County Council is working in partnership with Transport Infrastructure Ireland and the Department of Transport to develop the two projects to relieve congestion in Newcastle West and Abbeyfeale.  

The design update shows the proposed mainlines, side road realignments and junction layouts as well as whether the roads are in cut or on fill.  Additionally, it shows the proposed access arrangements, indicative land take lines, watercourse diversions and the location of drainage ponds and other details.

Cllr Liam Galvin said the bypasses of Abbeyfeale (see below) and Newcastle West (see above) have to be a priority after Adare.

“Unfortunately, there are a few houses that need to be demolished. Those families have to be treated with respect and well looked after financially,” said Cllr Galvin. Similarly, as a farmer and landowner, he stressed the importance of working with farmers affected.

“They have to be looked after financially, and with underpasses and overpasses for their cattle. Farmers have a connection to their land. I don’t want to see anyone upset,” said Cllr Galvin.

He said it is hoped plans will be submitted to An Bord Pleanala in the first quarter of 2026.

“I'm using the N21 on a regular basis. It could take me an hour and a half now to get to Limerick or come from Limerick. I would travel from the Woodlands House Hotel to Dublin in the same time. There is something very wrong,” said Cllr Galvin, who lives in Abbeyfeale.

He also highlighted the associated dangers from many drivers using local roads  to get around Adare, Newcastle West and Abbeyfeale.

READ MORE: Record price per acre paid for County Limerick field

The Newcastle West and Abbeyfeale bypasses are still years away but Cllr Galvin looks forward to the day that “our towns are not swamped with passing traffic” and “more people coming in to do business in our towns”.

Cllr Galvin praised the council’s roads section and has full faith in them to work closely with affected homeowners and landowners.

“The team in the roads section led by Ger Carey in the council are the most professional people I have ever dealt with. I’ll criticise our planning department and our housing section when I have to but credit where credit is due to our roads team,” said Cllr Galvin.