Proposal to revamp Limerick roundabouts raises eyebrows amid slow Ryder Cup preparations

SPECULATION about plans to revamp up to 18 roundabouts across Limerick, potentially as “mini putting greens” at the staggering cost of one million euro, has sparked debate among councillors, as frustrations continue to grow over the pace of local preparations for the 2027 Ryder Cup.

At the October meeting of the Adare–Rathkeale Municipal District, Fine Gael councillor Adam Teskey questioned whether the local authority was losing focus on the practical work still needed in Adare village itself.

With less than two years until the world-renowned tournament tees off at Adare Manor,  He said there has been “no visible improvement” in the village and that “the roads are in a deplorable state going in and out.”

He also pressed officials to confirm or deny reports that the council is considering converting 18 roundabouts into themed displays representing the 18 holes of a golf course, at a potential cost of €1 million.

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In response, Director of Services Vincent Murray said he was “not aware” of any such proposal but would seek clarification.

Following the meeting, Limerick City and County Council confirmed that a creative concept to enhance roundabouts across the city and county is “at a very early stage.” The council said the initiative is not directly linked to the Ryder Cup and would form part of an ongoing public realm improvement programme, with sponsorship expected to support funding.

Mr Murray added that a stakeholder workshop will soon be held to brief councillors on Ryder Cup preparations and outline the schedule of works planned for the next 12 months.

Cllr Teskey explained that “We now have a year and a half to go to the event itself, and there’s not one improvement in Adare village,” he said. “We’ve spent hundreds of thousands on parking and traffic management plans that aren’t needed, and we left it too late to draw down funding for the Heritage Centre.”

Cllr Bridie Collins also sought updates on rail access and potential central government funding to support infrastructure upgrades, while Cathaoirleach Cllr Ger Ward noted that tournament organisers would have “significant input” into decisions on what happens in and around Adare during the event.