Improvement works to junction in Limerick approved
COUNCILLORS have approved safety work which will see a junction in Limerick transformed.
The layout of Lee’s Cross, which is located around four kilometres south of Ballingarry, is set to be changed.
It’s long been considered a hazardous junction, with at least two vehicles colliding with a home at the junction in the last two years.
Council had received national funding to carry out work in the area.
Since the project is taking place on public land, it was the role of the councillors to approve or reject the proposals.
At this month’s full meeting, they gave the green light which will pave the way for the changes, estimated at costing in the region of €1.3m.
Lee’s Cross is currently a five-arm junction.
But under the new plans, this will be changed into two staggered T-junctions, with road tightening also being installed in the hope it will encourage drivers to slow down.
Up to now, the main issues at Lee’s Cross have been related to people speeding through it, often misjudging the bend on the main road.
As it stands, there are also visibility issues throughout the junction.
The intersection lies on the border between the Newcastle West and Adare-Rathkeale municipal districts.
The main route through it links up Newcastle West with the N20 and Kilmallock.
Importantly, it is also used as a back road for motorists looking to get into Limerick city without the need to pass through Adare, which often experiences queues.
The improvement scheme was unanimously approved without comment at this month’s council meeting.
But speaking previously, members in the Newcastle West district have welcomed the development.
Fianna Fail councillor Michael Collins, who works in Newcastle West, said: “From a safety perspective this is paramount. It is a very, very busy junction in the evening time and it is a dangerous junction so I welcome this.”
He said he uses the road most days.
Fine Gael councillor Liam Galvin of Abbeyfeale added: “It has to be welcomed, but I'm disappointed it has taken so long.
“The design is a hell of a lot better than what is there.”