Construction firm to be appointed as work to resume on major Limerick road

MOVES to restart the stalled Coonagh to Knockalisheen road project look set to be made.

Mayor John Moran has said it is his, and council’s aim to get the main works contract for the project in place for this month.

This commitment was made under the directly elected mayor’s programme for his first 100 days in office.

It’s anticipated work would take place in two phases over a 24 month period.

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Work on the project ground to a halt in early 2022 following the collapse of the lead contractor on the scheme, Roadbridge.

The road would see Watch House Cross linked to the Coonagh roundabout via a new roundabout at Moyross Avenue which would link to the Knockalisheen Road on the other side.

It’s seen as being crucial in opening up vast tracts of land for development, and ensuring Moyross is no longer isolated.

Prior to this intervention from the mayor, Limerick Sinn Fein TD Maurice Quinlivan said he had received “contradictory” answers from the Department of Transport and Limerick City and County Council over the status of the tender process.

“Clearly this project has never been a priority for the government,” Mr Quinlivan claimed.

“Myself and my party colleagues have been working on this issue for some time and people will remember that it was the local population and the community leaders that won this battle to have this crucial road built.”

He added: “This is more than just a road, it is a crucial piece of infrastructure for the regeneration of the northside of the city.”

“I am extremely concerned with the long delays in appointing a new contractor for the completion of this important roadway.

The people of Moyross have spent years campaigning for this road to be built and it is extremely disappointing how long this project is taking to complete,” he said.