Partial opening of Limerick dual carriageway marks step towards connected northside

LIMERICK'S northside is taking a step closer to better connectivity and growth with the opening of a new section of dual carriageway from the Tesco Roundabout at Coonagh to the newly constructed roundabout on Cratloe Road. 

This section will be open to traffic this Friday, marking a major milestone in the delivery of the long-awaited Coonagh to Knockalisheen Road Scheme.

This partial opening represents a significant step forward in improving connectivity and traffic flow in the area. While substantial completion of the full dual carriageway cannot take place until the entire route between Coonagh and Knockalisheen is finished, this development will provide immediate benefits to road users and the local community.

The timing of this opening is particularly welcome, as it coincides with the 24-hour road closure of Cratloe Road (from the Country Club to Killard), which begins the week commencing Monday, October 6.

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This closure is necessary to facilitate essential construction works on Cratloe Road. The newly opened section of dual carriageway will help accommodate additional traffic and ease congestion during this period.

Local access for residents affected by the Cratloe Road closure will be maintained throughout the duration of the works.

This development underscores the Council’s commitment to enhancing infrastructure and delivering long-term improvements for the region. 

Mayor of Limerick, John Moran, said: “The development of the Northside of our city is a key element of our ambition for Limerick. It cannot happen without full access what planners call ‘permeability’. The opening of this section of the Coonagh to Knockalisheen Distributor Road helps unlock an opportunity for a more dynamic, and more connected, Northside. I am looking forward to seeing it operational and improving access to education, jobs and services for thousands of people.”

Minister for Transport, Darragh O’ Brien TD, commented: “I am very pleased to see the significant progress being made on the Coonagh to Knockalisheen Distributor Road scheme. The partial opening of the dual carriageway marks a critical milestone in the full completion of this transformative scheme, which is set to have many benefits, including improved transport links and access to employment and educational opportunities as well as supporting future development in the area.”

Príomh Chomhairleoir of Limerick Council, Cllr Catherine Slattery, added: “This is an important development that will ease congestion, improve safety and make daily journeys quicker and more reliable for families, workers and students alike. It’s another step forward in delivering tangible improvements to our communities. I want to thank everyone involved in progressing the project to this point as we continue to build a better Limerick for all.”

Director General of Limerick Council, Dr Pat Daly, concluded: “This project reflects our commitment to delivering high quality infrastructure that supports Limerick’s growth, enhances the connectivity of our people and our business and improves the day-to-day lives of the people of Limerick. We are future-proofing Limerick, supporting economic investment and building a more accessible city and county. I want to acknowledge the dedication of our staff, partners and contractors Wills Bros Ltd in bringing the project to this stage.”