Huge shake-up for traffic in Limerick city centre under mayoral plan
Urban beach is back as Mayor John Moran outlines his vision for summer in Limerick
THERE’S going to be a huge shake-up around traffic access to the city centre as part of Mayor John Moran’s blueprint for the summer months in the city.
A massive area of Georgian Limerick between Barrington Street and Roches Street, including Catherine Street, Dominic Street and Cecil Street are to be designated as ‘superblocks’ according to the strategy, outlined this Tuesday.
Meanwhile, it’s anticipated that Honan’s Quay, The Crescent, Lower Glentworth Street, and Back Lane (just off High Street near the Milk Market) will be closed for the entire month of August, according to a road closure notice set to be published by Limerick City and County Council.
Nicholas Street will also be closed to private cars every day in August from 9am to 6pm, with the road closure extended out to 10pm on Saturdays and Sundays.
At all times during the road closures, diversions will be fully signposted, footpaths will stay open to pedestrins and emergency services will retain access.
The ‘superblocks’ will be in place every Sunday during July and August, with the measures intended to prioritise access for pedestrians, cyclists and public transport.
Below: Maps showing the proposed ‘superblocks’ for July and August
Other motorised vehicles will be allowed, but there will be traffic calming solutions, and potential reduced speed limits in place.
Mayor Moran says the move will give people the chance to experience “a different Limerick”.
“One that is more welcoming, more dynamic and full of life and to help shape its future,” he added.
The first citizen has cited Milan, Amsterdam, and Ilford - on the eastern fringes of London - as examples.
There will be an expanded programme of activity in August, Mayor Moran has said.
The five weekends in August will see professional street theatre and international sporting showcases among other things.
There will be greening initiatives, which are measures aimed at making the area more environmentally friendly.
This will include the introduction of planter boxes, semi-mature trees and temporary seating.
Events will take place at weekends, and funding will be made available to groups who may be interested in delivering events.
Mother Mac’s pub at High Street will activate the back lane adjoining its premises, creating an additional cultural and social space.
The programme will also feature an urban beach experience at Steamboat Quay, alongside interactive cultural programming and a strong emphasis on accessibility, sustainability and participation.
Mayor Moran hopes the feedback from these summer initiatives will inform his transport plan, which he expects to bring out in the coming months.
“This is about showing what Limerick can become. By trialling new ways of using our streets—prioritising people, supporting local businesses, and creating space for culture and community—we are taking an important step toward a more vibrant and liveable city centre,” said Mayor Moran.
Further details on specific events, traffic arrangements and opportunities to get involved will be announced in the coming weeks.