New Road Proposed to Alleviate Traffic Near Patrickswell Village

A new road could be constructed alongside Patrickswell as part of the M20 project, aimed at reducing traffic flow through the village. This proposal is one of four alternatives presented by the project designers in response to concerns raised by local councillors regarding the potential increase in vehicle numbers due to the new motorway link between Limerick and Cork.

The updated route design for the M20, released earlier this summer, has sparked apprehension among Patrickswell residents. Access to the motorway will be limited near the village, particularly with the proposed closure of junction five at Attyflin. If this closure proceeds, drivers heading towards Attyflin and nearby areas would have to exit the motorway at junction four and navigate through the village.

Project Coordinator Outlines Solutions

During a special council meeting this week, Jari Howard, the M20 project coordinator, discussed various strategies his team is exploring to mitigate traffic concerns. The most ambitious proposal involves creating a new link road extending two kilometers from the junction at Limerick Racecourse to Attyflin on the western side of the village. This connector road could potentially traverse historic properties and farmland, raising complexities around land acquisition.

In addition to the link road, Mr. Howard presented three other options for consideration. The first option involves maintaining the existing M20 exit at Attyflin instead of closing it. The second option proposes adding a second exit at the Attyflin junction, similar to what exists on the opposite side of the road. Both of these options could be implemented together. The third option suggests an eastbound exit on the left-hand side of the Attyflin junction, allowing drivers to return to Limerick city more directly.

Councillors Express Support for Parallel Road

At the council meeting, representatives from the City West area largely supported the idea of a parallel road, as detailed in the initial proposal. Despite the backing, Mr. Howard emphasized that all four options are still under review, each with its own potential drawbacks that require thorough investigation.

The discussions come at a significant financial juncture, as the M20 project represents a substantial investment of €1 billion. The outcomes of these proposals will play a crucial role in shaping traffic patterns in and around Patrickswell, impacting both local residents and commuters traveling between Limerick and Cork.

The decision on the preferred option will likely influence future development in the area, as well as the local community’s quality of life. As the assessment process continues, stakeholders remain attentive to how traffic management strategies will evolve in the context of the M20 project.