Limerick City and County Council welcomes the completion of three major bridge structures on the Foynes to Limerick Road Scheme (including the Adare Bypass), delivered ahead of schedule by Iarnród Éireann in partnership with the Council.
The €13 million project was delivered on budget, following a 14-month construction period. The works were fast-tracked to ensure the bridges, spanning the Limerick to Foynes rail line, were in place before freight transport resumes on the line. Works on reinstating the rail line are due for completion in October 2026.
The bridges also provide safe crossings for construction traffic, supporting progress on the Limerick to Foynes Road Scheme, including the Adare Bypass. Their early completion benefits the overall timeline for the delivery of one of the region’s most important infrastructure projects.
The Council also acknowledges the contribution of contractor John Cradock Ltd in completing the bridge works to a high standard.
Iarnród Éireann continues major works to reinstate the Limerick to Foynes Freight Line, a €151.5 million investment that will reintroduce rail freight services on the line for the first time since 2001.
Mayor of Limerick, John Moran, commented:
"The early completion of the three strategic bridges is a major step forward, and it gives confidence that the reinstatement of freight rail and the construction of the road scheme are both moving in the right direction. I want to thank Iarnród Éireann for their attention to this project and their commitment to delivering these structures ahead of schedule. While there is a lot of conversation nationally about speed of delivery of infrastructure, I take great comfort locally in Limerick to see all our teams innovating and delivering essential infrastructure at speed, showing that when given the approvals and funding, Limerick delivers!”
Príomh Chomhairleoir, Cllr Catherine Slattery, said:
"The Foynes to Limerick Road Scheme, including the Adare Bypass, is about unlocking opportunities for businesses, improving quality of life for residents, and making our region more accessible. The reinstatement of the Foynes rail line adds another dimension, supporting sustainable freight transport for Foynes Port and reducing pressure on our roads."
Patricia Liddy, Director of Transportation, Mobility and Placemaking at Limerick City and County Council added:
"The Foynes to Limerick Road Scheme, including Adare Bypass will transform connectivity across the Mid-West, reducing congestion, improving safety, and supporting economic growth. The collaborative approach with Iarnród Éireann has had mutual benefits for both organisations and is a model we are keen to replicate in the future, should the opportunity arise.”