A planning application for the N/M20 Cork to Limerick Project is programmed to be submitted to An Bord Pleanála next year, subject to approval of the project’s Business Case which will be presented to Government later this year.
These significant project milestones were disclosed in the latest Project Update today (June16th). This update provides detailed, specific information on the project’s layout and functioning and indicates for the first time the extent of the lands that will be required .
If planning consent is granted, the project will be constructed in phases, with traffic flow gains being achieved through the construction of by-passes of Charleville, Buttevant and Mallow initially. Dependent on the approval and planning process, construction of the project could begin in 2028. It is estimated that the project will take approximately seven years to fully complete.
Interactive mapping available from today’s update on the project website, www.corklimerick.ie, presents the developing design which includes specific information on the Indicative Development Boundaries, mainline, junctions and side road design, layouts for seven Transport Hubs and a dedicated Freight Hub, amongst many other design details and construction information. Public display events will be held between 12pm and 8pm in Charleville (June17th), Adare (June 18th) and Mallow (June 19th).
The evolving design of the project and the mitigation measures incorporated have been shaped by ongoing engagement with potentially impacted land and property owners and others adjacent to or beyond the proposed motorway route. The project team has had over 1,000 face to face or online meetings outlining the developing designs and the mitigating measures proposed. Further dialogue with stakeholders will continue.
Mayor of Limerick, John Moran, commented:
“This project is a key infrastructural priority in the National Development Plan. In my recent submission of Limerick ‘asks’ to Government, I requested that funding be allocated to the project to ensure that it progresses as quickly as possible. When delivered and built, it will replace one of the most dangerous roads in the country with new transit links that will be five times safer than the existing single carriageway. It will also provide much needed connectivity to our neighbours in Cork, which will provide a significant economic boost to both cities and counties.”
Minister of Transport, Darragh O’Brien, said:
“This latest update underscores the vital role that stakeholder engagement has played inshaping the route for the N/M20 motorway. The Department of Transport, TransportInfrastructure Ireland (TII), and the Project Team remain committed to ongoing engagement withall stakeholders as the project progresses.”
Dr. Pat Daly, Director General of Limerick City and County Council, said:
"The N/M20 Cork to Limerick Project represents a transformative investment in the Mid-West region. We remain committed to working closely with our partners to ensure its successful delivery for the benefit of all communities along the route."
Moira Murrell, Chief Executive, Cork County Council, said:
“The project will facilitate economic development through improved connectivity between Ireland’s second and third largest cities and along the Atlantic Corridor to Galway and deliver substantial community, business and environmental gains along the route through the significant reduction of traffic volumes and the elimination of traffic congestion.”
Valerie O'Sullivan, Chief Executive, Cork City Council, added:
“The project is a gamechanger for the southern region. It will deliver world class, modern and safe transport infrastructure, giving road users safer and quicker journeys between Cork & Limerick. It will deliver Ireland’s largest active travel network, bringing both environmental and health benefits to communities along the route. Furthermore, the enhanced regional connectivity will ensure more balanced regional economic development into the future.”
It will provide safer, shorter and more reliable journey times between Blarney and Patrickswell:
- 40 minutes for cars and light goods vehicles (120 km/h)
- 45 minutes for Buses (100km/h)
- 50 minutes for HGVs (90km/h)
The project will include one of Ireland’s largest Active Travel Network - 100 kms - creating safe and inclusive walking and cycling options for all users, connecting the communities of Blarney, Rathduff, Mourneabbey, Mallow, New Two pothouse, Buttevant, Charleville, Banogue, Croom and Patrickswell
Seven Transport Hubs along the route at Rathduff, Mourneabbey, Mallow, Buttevant, Charleville, Bruree and Croom will provide charging points for electric vehicles and encourage car sharing and travel mode change to active travel and public transport. A freight hub at Mallow will facilitate safe, secure parking and rest areas for HGV drivers and provide charging points to encourage the transition towards zero emission HGVs and buses.
A multidisciplinary team has informed the design on matters such as aquatic ecology, archaeology, architectural heritage and biodiversity. Following an assessment of the impact the project will have on the existing environment; the biodiversity value of replacement and additional planting will be maximised. Thousands of acres will be planted with native tree species, bushes, hedgerows, shrubs and grasslands.
The project team continues to welcome feedback from property owners, communities ,businesses and other stakeholders, through in person meetings, public display events and a public webinar (7pm on 24th June). Further information can be seen on www.corklimerick.ie