In pictures: More cycle lanes introduced to Limerick in latest Active Travel scheme

NEW PEDESTRIAN and cycle facilities have been opened at one of the major routes into Limerick city centre.

The National Transport Authority has teamed up with Limerick City and County Council to complete an Active Travel scheme at Hyde Road.

The work has seen a section of this road - between Childers Road and Lower Carey's Road - transformed.

New traffic calming measures have been introduced too, while there are still two lanes for cars, lorries and other motor vehicles.

Mayor of Limerick, Cllr Gerald Mitchell cut the ribbon to launch the scheme.

"The completion of the Hyde Road Active Travel scheme is the latest in a long line of projects that are delivering a more sustainable transport network for Limerick and significantly improving safety for all road users. This project will link people’s homes with schools and local amenities and offer an enhanced pedestrian and cycling experience for the community. I’m looking forward to seeing the rollout of similar schemes across the city and county in the months and years ahead," he said.

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The one-kilometre long facility includes segregated cycle lanes, an improved footpath, drop-curbs, tactile paving and junction improvements at Crecora Avenue, Lenihan Avenue, Byrne Avenue and Meagher Avenue.

Table top ramps and new road markings are also included in the project, which was constructed by Priority Construction Ltd.

Dr Pat Daly, ceo of Limerick City and County Council, added: "The works on the Hyde Road are a clear example of the type of high quality Active Travel facilities that can be delivered when all parties work towards a common goal of better and safer road infrastructure. We can be particularly proud of this sustainable transport infrastructure running through the heart of a Regeneration community.

"The Active Travel team is continuing work on delivering significant projects across the city and county that will ensure high quality cycling and pedestrian infrastructure is available across Limerick in the short, medium and long term. Limerick City and County Council is proud to be innovative and community-focused and will continue to keep these attributes at its forefront as it expands the Active Travel network."

While nine trees along the road were removed to construct the scheme, they are to be recycled in part as natural play equipment for a nearby community crèche.

Some 27 new trees along the scheme, which will consist of a mix of native, naturalised and climate resilient species, will be planted in January 2024.