Foynes to Limerick Road
(including Adare Bypass)
Limerick City & County Council
Project Description
The proposed project is 35km in length and will provide a motorway upgrade from Attyflin to Rathkeale, in addition to connecting the port of Foynes to the motorway network.
The project consists of:
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Approx.15.6 km dual carriageway from Foynes to Rathkeale (with approx.1.9km single carriageway link road between Ballyclogh and Askeaton),
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Approx.17.5 km motorway from Rathkeale to the existing motorway network at Attyflin (N21/N20/M20 junction)
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A Service Area for Heavy Goods Vehicles near Foynes
This project promotes efficient and effective transport links in the Munster region, improving connectivity between Foynes Port, Limerick and the surrounding areas. The project will improve the urban environment of the heritage town of Adare and will increase road capacity, reducing journey times and improving safety for road users.
Where Are We Now
An Bord Pleanála approved the Foynes to Limerick Road (including Adare Bypass) which comprises the Foynes to Rathkeale Protected Road Scheme 2019, the Rathkeale to Attyflin Motorway Scheme 2019 and the Foynes Service Area Scheme 2019 on 30th August 2022.
Link to An Bord Pleanála website hereunder.
EIAR & NIS - https://www.pleanala.ie/en-ie/case/306146
Motorway / Protected Road / Service Area Schemes https://www.pleanala.ie/en-ie/case/306199
On the 21st November 2023, the Minister for Transport Eamonn Ryan TD announced the Government's approval to advance construction of the Adare Bypass.
The decision to bring forward construction of the bypass section of the project will facilitate potential early delivery of the bypass ahead of the Ryder Cup. The event will be held at Adare Manor in September 2027 and if delivered, the bypass could assist traffic management during this busy period.
Since November 2023, a programme of extensive advance works has been underway across the full extent of the project. These works have included services diversions, fencing, site clearance and further archaeological and ground investigations.
In June 2024, and further to the Government announcement of November 2023, the Council initiated a tender process for the procurement of the 7km Adare Bypass as an advance construction contract. The deadline for submitting tenders was in late September 2024.
In August 2024, Irish Rail awarded a contract to John Cradock Ltd. for the construction of three (3) “road over rail" bridges as part of the project, two of which are being constructed on the Adare Bypass section.
Construction commenced shortly after contract award and construction is now well advanced at all three locations.
In December 2024 the contract for the construction of the Adare Bypass was awarded to the Sisk Sorensen Joint Venture, (a collaboration between John Sisk & Son (Holdings) Ltd and Sorensen Civil Engineering Ltd). Work started on site in January 2025.
About Us
Limerick City & County Council in partnership with the Department of Transport and Transport Infrastructure Ireland are developing the Foynes to Limerick road (Including Adare Bypass).
Project Background
In 2014, Limerick City and County Council engaged Engineering Consultants to undertake the planning, design and environmental assessment of the proposed development.
In 2016, a route selection report was published, and the design of the proposed development was subsequently progressed.
In December 2019, Limerick City and County Council submitted an Environmental Impact Assessment Report, Natura Impact Statement and Compulsory Purchase Order to An Bord Pleanála for the proposed development.
On the 30th August 2022, An Bord Pleanála, approved the Foynes to Limerick Road (including the Adare Bypass)
In June 2023, judicial review proceedings challenging the planning approval for the project were withdrawn in the High Court, thus removing any remaining challenges to the planning approval for the Scheme.
Contact
Foynes To Limerick Queries :
Mid West National Road Design Office,
Lissanalta House,
Dooradoyle Road,
Dooradoyle,
Limerick
V94 H5RR
Telephone: 061 951000
Email: foynes@midwestroads.ie