Limerick City and County Council welcomes the announcement of more than €22 million in funding for six strategic projects across Limerick under the Towns and Cities Regeneration Investment Fund.
The funding package includes a €9 million allocation for the Nicholas Street Public Realm Scheme, supporting the ongoing regeneration of King's Island and Limerick's Medieval Quarter. Significant funding has also been awarded for the Bank Place & Granary Courtyard Public Realm and Central Plaza Common Area project - €7.5 million, and the Southside Connectivity Project - €6 million, creating a combined investment of €22.5 million in three key areas of the city.
The allocations were announced by Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne TD and form part of a national investment package of €409 million supporting almost 120 regeneration projects across every local authority area in the State.
Mayor of Limerick, John Moran welcomed the investment, saying:
“I welcome these funding allocations which will help to address some longstanding challenges across Limerick. From renewal of the medieval heart of the city around Nicholas Street and new civic spaces taking shape at the Opera Site, to stronger connections across the south side and vital cultural, sporting and town centre projects, this funding will support bricks and mortar upgrades in some of the areas that need them most.
“This investment gives us an opportunity to double down on the momentum building across the city and county. The test now is turning this allocation into visible change on the ground. I will continue to push to keep Limerick high on the Government’s agenda and secure the backing needed to deliver for our county.”
Príomh Chomhairleoir, Cllr Tom Ruddle says the funded projects will be transformative:
"This funding is a significant vote of confidence in Limerick and in the vision being delivered through regeneration projects across our city and county. These investments will enhance our public spaces, strengthen communities, support local businesses and help create vibrant town and city centres that will benefit residents and visitors alike."
Director General of Limerick City and County Council, Dr Pat Daly says the funding will accelerate delivery of key initiatives:
"These allocations will have a positive impact across Limerick and will help realise our shared vision for a thriving and connected city and county. We look forward to working with Government and our stakeholders to bring these projects forward and ensure they deliver real and tangible outcomes for the people of Limerick."
Project Overview
Nicholas Street Public Realm Scheme
Funding: €9 million
The largest allocation awarded to Limerick will support a major transformation of Nicholas Street. The project includes new paving, lighting, street furniture and accessibility improvements designed to enhance the public realm, improve the visitor experience and support the continued regeneration of Limerick's Medieval Quarter.
The investment complements a growing programme of activity in the area, including the proposed Limerick Fashion Incubator at Mary Street, the Forge Design Factory at the historic Fireplace Site and wider regeneration initiatives across King's Island. Together, these projects aim to create a vibrant and economically active Medieval Quarter while celebrating the area's unique heritage and cultural significance.
Bank Place & Granary Courtyard Public Realm and Central Plaza Common Area
Funding: €7.5 million
This project forms part of the wider Opera Square development and will deliver high-quality public spaces including improvements to Bank Place, Granary Courtyard and the creation of a central civic plaza. The scheme will strengthen connectivity throughout the city centre and support one of the most significant urban regeneration projects currently underway in Ireland.
Southside Connectivity Project
Funding: €6 million
The Southside Connectivity Project will provide improved walking and cycling routes, upgraded public realm infrastructure and safer connections between neighbourhoods, schools, services and amenities. The project aims to enhance accessibility and create stronger links between the Southill regeneration community and key destinations across the area.
Limerick Fashion Incubator
Funding: €150,000
Funding will support the development of design proposals and planning processes for the proposed Fashion Incubator at the former Mary Street Garda Station. The project seeks to celebrate Limerick's fashion heritage while creating opportunities for emerging designers and creative industries.
Newcastle West Town Centre Public Realm Enhancement Project
Funding: €150,000
The allocation will help advance plans for future streetscape and public realm improvements in Newcastle West, supporting the ongoing regeneration and vitality of the town centre while enhancing its attractiveness as a place to live, work, shop and visit.
SIW 4 Municipal Sports Facility, Prospect/Hyde Road
Funding: €150,000
Funding will support the further development of proposals for a municipal sports facility within the wider Colbert Quarter regeneration area, helping lay the groundwork for future community, recreation and sports infrastructure in one of Limerick's key growth locations.
Limerick City and County Council will now work with the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage to progress the approved projects through the next stages of design, planning and delivery.
