The development of the N24 Cahir to Limerick Junction Project is progressing into its most pivotal stage, Phase 3, which concentrates on the detailed design and environmental evaluation of the proposed route improvements. This phase marks a critical juncture for the 116-kilometer N24 route, which links Limerick to Waterford and passes through several key areas in County Tipperary, including Bansha, Limerick Junction, Monard, and Oola.
The specific section under development spans from the M8 motorway north of Cahir to a point in Limerick County. A Limerick-based consultancy firm, Arup, has been appointed as the Technical Advisors to steer the project through its intricate design stages in collaboration with Tipperary County Council, Limerick City & County Council, Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), and the Department of Transport.
Early studies during Phase 1 identified several limitations with the current N24 road infrastructure. The existing route is narrow and poorly aligned in certain areas, passing directly through four villages and Tipperary Town. These bottlenecks result in significant traffic delays, reducing the road’s economic efficiency and overall functionality.
A spokesperson for the project emphasized, “It is considered that the existing road is economically inefficient and detracts from the development and growth of the region.”
The N24 Cahir to Limerick Junction Project's goals are multifaceted, including enhancing safety, improving journey reliability, and optimizing the road’s strategic function. Central to this phase is creating a safer environment for all road users—motorists, pedestrians, or cyclists. The project also aims to improve accessibility to rural zones, reduce collision risks, and foster a more inclusive transport network.
Phase 3 is advancing the Preferred Transport Solution, introduced during public consultations in May 2022. This phase is crucial in translating the preliminary designs into actionable plans, all while ensuring the proposed solutions meet environmental and regulatory standards.
As part of the project’s commitment to sustainability, Phase 3 also includes the development of active travel routes for cyclists and pedestrians. Demand management strategies are being incorporated to manage traffic flow more efficiently, reduce congestion, and promote eco-friendly travel options.
As the project progresses, the design team will continue to engage with stakeholders, including property owners and local authorities, to address any concerns or suggestions. Further environmental evaluations will inform the final plans, ensuring the road’s development aligns with local environmental policies and land use requirements.
Once the design and environmental assessment are complete, the project will move into Phase 4, Construction Planning, where contracts will be finalized and funding secured to prepare for the physical construction of the new road.
