Major boost for Limerick as next phase of 'vital' transport project is approved
The Department of Transport announced the news that the Coonagh to Knockalisheen Distributor Road Project is to move to the tender stage.
The tender stage will take approximately four months to complete, with the aim of commencing onsite in Spring 2024. The full scheme will take approximately 24 months to complete broken down into two Phases.
The development works, which includes the construction of a 2.2km dual carriageway with footways, cycle ways, verges and two railway over bridges, is a key element of the Limerick Regeneration programme.
It is set to be an 'urban style' carriageway between Coonagh Roundabout and Knockalisheen Road. The first phase of the project, which cost in the region of €8m, was completed in 2018. The construction cost of the main contract is estimated to cost €35m.
Saying that the project will “reap huge rewards” for the region, Mayor of Limerick, Cllr Gerald Mitchell said: “This is a major step towards the completion of this vital project which will reap huge rewards not just for Moyross but for the whole of Limerick.”
Phase One will see the completion of the Mainline Dual Carriageway from Coonagh Cross to Knockalisheen Road,including works on the Old Cratloe Road and the new Moyross Link Road.
The expected duration for these works is 12 months.
Phase Two is the completion of the full road reconstruction of Knockalisheen Road to Watch House Cross including the reconstruction of Ballynanty Railway Bridge. The expected duration of these works is, also, 12 months.
While Director of Services, Transportation and Mobility, Brian Kennedy said the road will “dramatically improve” connectivity on the north side of Limerick city.
“The Coonagh to Knockalisheen road is a key element of the Limerick Regeneration Framework Implementation Plan and it will be a driver for economic and social developments in Moyross and the wider north side area of the city.”