Number of refinements to N/M20 Cork-to-Limerick project announced

A reduced road corridor and expanded active travel infrastructure are among the changes announced in an update on the N/M20 project, described as a “badly needed” piece of infrastructure linking Cork and Limerick.

Since the publication of the preferred route, the project team said they have been progressing the ‘Phase 3 Design and Environmental Evaluation’ stage of the project and that a number of refinements have been made.

Key among them is a reduction in width of the mainline corridor from 500m to 200m.

A further reduction identifying the proposed ‘fence line’ for the scheme will take place over the next 12 months.

The project team also said the junctions, side roads and link roads have been advanced allowing the previously displayed land requirement for these to be reduced.

“The exact details of the lands to be acquired will be established as the design develops further during Phase 3 and presented at public updates in 2024,” the update published yesterday stated.

Also among the refinements to the scheme is an expanded provision of active travel infrastructure for walking and cycling from 80km to 100km.

Progress on the project was welcomed by Fianna Fáil TD for Cork North Central, Pádraig O’Sullivan.

“It’s great to see this much-needed piece of infrastructure proceeding to the next phase,” he said.

“From the outset I have always maintained that other infrastructure such as the Mallow By needs to accompany this major link for people to realise the full benefits of connectivity between the two cities of Cork and Limerick," he added.

Meanwhile, Sinn Féin TD for Cork North Central, Thomas Gould, described the proposed M20 as a “huge piece of infrastructure that is badly needed”, pointing out that there have been a number of tragic road traffic incidents on the existing N20 over the years.

However, Mr Gould said it is important that people whose land may need to be acquired for the development be given a definitive answer as a matter of urgency.

“This is going on three years. What we need now is clarity,” he said.

The N/M20 Cork to Limerick project is based upon on a “first of its type” multi modal view to improving connectivity, safety, and economic links between the cities of Cork and Limerick, and ultimately Galway.

Yesterday’s announcement, the project team said, follows consideration of “extensive public and of evolving climate, environmental and transport policy”.

Transport hubs

Additionally, as part of the project, the team have identified an opportunity to develop a network of ‘transport hubs’ along the route.

A transport hub is any location which allows for interchange between at least two types of transport.

Hubs may have a range of facilities including parking, bus shelters, and electric bike and vehicle charging points.

Larger hubs may provide welfare facilities such as waiting areas with restrooms, they said.

In addition to the transport hubs, a freight hub or HGV rest area, is also proposed.

This is likely to be located at Charleville or Mallow.

Limerick City and County Council is progressing the development of the N/M20 in partnership with Cork County Council, Cork City Council, Transport Infrastructure Ireland and the Department of Transport.

As well as the development of active travel infrastructure, the N/M20 project will deliver new and improved dual carriageway road between Cork city and Patrickswell in Limerick.

“Over the next number of months, the project team will continue to develop and refine the design of the mainline, junctions, transport hubs, active travel infrastructure, side roads, drainage, landscaping, environmental mitigation measures and the associated ancillary works,” the project team said yesterday.

“We will continue to engage with all affected landowners throughout this process to ensure they remain informed and will endeavour to minimise the potential impact the project may have on them.” Further updates on the project are expected in Q2 and Q4 of 2024.

The full update on the project published yesterday can be found online at www.corklimerick.ie.

The updates will also be outlined at a public online webinar tomorrow at 7pm.