Bonneagar Iompair Eireann Transport Infrastructure Ireland Limerick | Shannon METROPOLITAN AREA TRANSPORT STRATEGY PUBLIC CONSULTATION DOCUMENT ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
National Transport Authority: Limerick City and County Council: Jacobs: Hugh Creegan Brian Kennedy John Paul FitzGerald David Clements Dan Slavin Kevin Burke Michael MacAree Maria Woods Marjely Caneva Jari Howard Jennifer Egan Transport Infrastructure Ireland: Robert Gallagher Sarah Cooper Martin Bourke Dara McGuigan Stephen Johnson Michael McCormack Tim Fitzgerald Colm Kelly Tara Spain Clare County Council Systra: Carmel Kirby Ian Byrne Liam Conneally Allanah Murphy Sean Lenihan Paul Hussey Ann Cronin Andrew Archer Brian McCarthy Sinead Canny John Leahy Tadgh McNamara Dolphin 3D Photomontages: Philip Watkin Date of publication: June 2020 INTRODUCTION
The Limerick-Shannon Metropolitan In common with the other regional metropolitan The Vision for LSMATS is: Area Transport Strategy will be areas of Cork, Galway and Waterford, there is The Strategy will deliver a high-quality, accessible, integrated and more sustainable transport instrumental in the regeneration and a legacy of car dependency in the LSMA. This has contributed to a wide range of economic, network that supports the role of the Limerick- transformation of Limerick City and environmental and social issues including longer Shannon Metropolitan Area as the major growth engine of the Mid-West Region, an internationally the wider Limerick-Shannon commutes, declining urban centres, poor public competitive European city region and main Metropolitan Area. health, reduced air quality and noise pollution. international entry to the Atlantic Corridor. Regional Spatial and Economic Strategy for the Southern Region To mitigate this, land use and transport planning will To achieve this vision, the guiding principles upon The Limerick-Shannon Metropolitan Area be far more closely aligned. This will discourage the which LSMATS is based are: Transport Strategy 2040 (LSMATS or the ‘Strategy’) use of the private car, particularly for short trips, in has been developed by the National Transport order to fundamentally change how people move Authority in collaboration with Limerick City and around the LSMA. This requires a more efficient use T of valuable street and road space and a prioritisation and planned development built in accordance County Council, Clare County Council and with the NPF, RSES and Development Plans Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII). It has also been of walking, cycling and public transport. informed by pre-consultation submissions from a T number of stakeholders. LSMATS will deliver an integrated transport network LSMA through the provision of an efficient that addresses the needs of all modes of transport The National Planning Framework 2040 (NPF) to support planned growth up to 2040 in a compact envisages that the Limerick-Shannon Metropolitan and sustainable manner. T reduce car dependency Area (LSMA) will become the growth engine of the Mid-West Region with projected growth of at least The Strategy represents a coherent transport 50% during the period up to 2040. This projected planning policy framework and implementation To provide a high level of public transport plan around which other agencies involved in land connectivity to key destinations and within high population, employment and education growth demand corridors brings with it opportunities for the development of use planning, environmental protection and the delivery of other infrastructure and services such as the LSMA. To identify and protect key strategic routes for housing, utilities and community facilities can align the movement of freight traffic This projected population and associated economic their plans and investment priorities. growth will also result in a significant increase in The Strategy has been developed to be scalable To enhance the public realm through traffic the demand for travel. This demand needs to be managed and planned for carefully in order to and flexible enough to meet changes in population safeguard and enhance the LSMA’s attractiveness to and employment growth and is subject to periodic live, work, visit and invest in. review, every 6 years. To increase transport capacity where needed to achieve the Strategy outcomes
LIMERICK SHANNON | METROPOLITAN AREA TRANSPORT STRATEGY 1 2 LIMERICK SHANNON | METROPOLITAN AREA TRANSPORT STRATEGY POLICY CONTEXT
Transport investment by the NATIONAL POLICY REGIONAL POLICY Governmental Department, the National LSMATS is underpinned and directly informed by At a regional level, the Regional Spatial and Transport Authority and other agencies, National level Tier-1 policies; the most important of Economic Strategy (RSES) translates the objectives will be identified and prioritised through these are the National Planning Framework 2040 of the NPF and the NDP for the Southern Region the Limerick-Shannon Metropolitan (NPF) and the National Development Plan 2018-2027 and aims to enable improved coordination (NDP). The NPF sets out Ireland’s planning policy regarding planning and development policy issues Area Transport Strategy. direction for the next 20 years, while the NDP sets across local authority boundaries. Regional Spatial and Economic Strategy for the Southern Region out the investment priorities that will underpin the successful implementation of the NPF up to 2027. The RSES was adopted in January 2020 by the LSMATS is a regional level (Tier 2) plan and Southern Regional Assembly. As part of the is currently non-statutory. LSMATS has been Under the NPF, Limerick City and Suburbs (including development of the RSES, Metropolitan Area developed to align with many national, regional those areas within County Clare) are expected to Strategic Plans were also devised to provide more and local level policies and will build upon many grow to support a minimum population of at least detailed focus on city and metropolitan issues for existing plans. There are long-standing objectives 141,000 by 2040. the key cities, including the LSMA. across several sectors at all levels which aim to reduce car-dependency, promote active travel The NPF identifies a number of key transport LOCAL POLICY modes, tackle climate change and increase projects and growth enablers for the LSMA including: The third tier in the policy hierarchy is local accessibility, connectivity and social inclusion. Implementation of the Limerick 2030 Plan to planning, which transposes National and Regional revitalise and redevelop Limerick City Centre objectives into a local context. LSMATS builds These policies and plans include, but are and Docks; upon existing local plans and policies including not limited to: Progressing sustainable development of new the Limerick Metropolitan District Movement National Planning Framework 2040; greenfield areas for housing on supporting public Framework and the Shannon Town and Environs National Climate Action Plan 2019; transport corridors; Local Area Plan. National Development Plan 2018-2027; Provision of a Citywide public transport network, The Strategy’s proposals will also inform the with enhanced accessibility from the City Centre National Cycle Policy Framework 2009-2020; development of future Development Plans and to the National Technological Park, UL and A Sustainable Transport Future – Smarter Travel; Local Area Plans under Limerick City and County Shannon Airport; Design Manual for Urban Roads and Streets; Council and Clare County Council. Development of a strategic cycleway network with Regional Spatial and Economic Strategy for the high capacity flagship routes; Southern Region; and Enhanced road connectivity to Shannon-Foynes County and City Development Plans and Local Port; and Area Plan. Enhanced regional connectivity through improved average journey times by road from LSMA to Cork and to Waterford.
LIMERICK SHANNON | METROPOLITAN AREA TRANSPORT STRATEGY 3 STUDY AREA AND EXISTING TRANSPORT NETWORK
O’Briensbridge
Sixmilebridge
Shannon Clonlara Castleconnell Ardnacrusha
Bunratty Cratloe Shannon Airport Parteen
Moyross
Knock Hill University of Limerick Castletroy Annacotty
Colbert Station
Dooradoyle Mungret
Patrickswell
Adare STUDY AREA & TRANSPORT CONTEXT
The private car is the dominant mode The areas with the highest population density KEY CHALLENGES are Limerick City Centre, Raheen, Dooradoyle of travel, but there is a strong walking A number of existing challenges were considered and Shannon town centre. There are significant culture already present within the city. in the preparation of this Strategy. To provide a employment clusters across the LSMA including significantly improved sustainable transport network Cycling and public transport have a low Shannon Free Zone, Raheen, National Technology and facilitate a modal shift toward sustainable mode share. Park and the University of Limerick. modes, land use and transport planning, policy and Limerick Metropolitan District Movement Framework Study, 2015 investment in the LSMA will need to: The City and its Metropolitan Area is served by Support vibrant and accessible village and town The Limerick Shannon Metropolitan Area a number of InterCity rail services, city, regional centres across the LSMA including Limerick City (LSMA) covers 387km2, and has a population and Expressway bus/coach services, Shannon Centre and Shannon Town; of over 132,400 (CSO, 2016). This is made up of International Airport (located approximately 20km to approximately 96,800 residents within the Limerick the north-west of the City Centre), a well-developed Better integrate land use, and transport planning City and Suburbs boundary as defined by the CSO. network of National, Regional and Local roads, and and investment; walking and cycle networks of varying quality. Support increased population, employment and Limerick City is the largest urban centre in Ireland’s educational densities in accessible centres and Mid-West Region and the country’s third largest There are 415,000 trips originating within the along public transport corridors; city. Shannon is a significant employment centre LSMA on average each weekday (over 24 hours). Maximise the potential of the existing transport with assets such as Shannon International Airport The majority of travel demand is mostly internal infrastructure including the InterCity rail network, and Shannon Free-Zone. Both Limerick City and for Limerick City and Shannon, with 89% and 68% Shannon Airport, the Port of Foynes and Ennis as a Shannon are interdependent upon each other, with respectively of morning peak trips made within the connecting hub; their complementary functions contributing to a same area. Almost half of the trips originating from Re-allocate road space to support more walking, combined strength which is a key economic driver the LSMA are made towards Limerick City and cycling and public transport; for the Mid-West Region. about 10% towards Shannon. Improve public transport through increased priority The residential population within the LSMA is MODE SHARE and higher frequency services operating with greater speed and journey time reliability with concentrated mainly within Limerick City Centre The following is the existing mode share for the complementary facilities such as Park and Ride; and suburbs while less than 25% is distributed LSMA across the whole day for all trip purposes: Minimise severance created by the River Shannon, throughout Shannon and the rural areas. Public transport: 8%; railway infrastructure and road network; Walking: 29%; Reduce the impact of transport on the environment, Cycling: 2%; and health, wellbeing and safety of residents; Car: 61%. The need to achieve efficiency and resilience within the LSMA’s transport network across all modes; and This mode share reflects a legacy of high car Maintain and enhance the strategic function of the dependency and the current limitations of the National road network. public transport provision in the LSMA.
LIMERICK SHANNON | METROPOLITAN AREA TRANSPORT STRATEGY 5 6 LIMERICK SHANNON | METROPOLITAN AREA TRANSPORT STRATEGY LSMATS 2040 LAND USE
The target is for at least 40% of all In terms of employment and education, LSMATS Guided by the principles of the NPF, the following new housing to be delivered within supports development along its identified high strategy development priorities for the distribution of land-use have been identified for the LSMA: the existing built-up areas of cities, capacity public transport corridors, to serve University of Limerick, University Hospital Limerick, towns and villages on infill and/or To deliver consolidated development in a manner LIT, Dooradoyle, Mary Immaculate College, the that can avail of existing transport infrastructure brownfield sites. National Technology Park, Shannon Free Zone and and services, and nearby amenities and facilities, National Planning Framework 2040 Shannon Airport. in line with the principles of Transit Oriented Development (TOD). The objective of this approach The NPF estimates that the population of Ireland will The Strategy is confronting a legacy which saw is to deliver a critical mass of growth in population increase by approximately 1 million people by 2040 significant levels of growth and migration of land and employment which can support the transition with a requirement of an additional 600,000 jobs uses to suburban and peri-urban fringe locations, to and sequencing of investment to higher capacity and a minimum of 500,000 additional homes. typically at lower densities and unconnected to public transport infrastructure and services; existing and planned public transport services. This To increase densities in future residential and pattern of development has contributed to high The NPF recognises the role that Limerick and the employment developments. This measure can rates of car dependency which cannot continue. other regional cites of Cork, Galway and Waterford contribute to a more compact urban footprint that have to play in providing a counter-weight to Dublin brings more people closer to their destinations and To ensure the success of this Strategy, the and assigned a minimum population growth forecast to public transport services; of 50-60% to each regional city, with a further targets planning policy frameworks and implementation Prioritise mixed-use development which reduces of at least 40% of all new housing to be delivered measures of Limerick City and County Council and the need to travel. This includes ensuring areas are within the existing built-up areas of cities, towns and Clare County Council must look to target higher developed in tandem with the delivery of schools, villages on infill and/or brownfield sites. densities and mixed-use developments in areas where opportunities exist for sustainable transport shops and other community services to enable people to choose sustainable modes of transport The LSMATS 2040 land use scenario was developed provision and in a manner that better aligns the such as walking and cycling; by the National Transport Authority in collaboration provision of transport with demand. with Limerick City and County Council and All new development areas will be fully permeable Clare County Council, guided by the population for pedestrians and cyclists and opportunities to projections provided by the RSES up to 2031 for improve permeability for these modes in existing Limerick City and Suburbs (129,448) and the rest of developed areas will be sought. The principle of the LSMA (48,074). filtered permeability, whereby through private car traffic is discouraged, will apply; and To support the compact growth aspiration of the The layout of new developments will prioritise NPF, Limerick City Centre will become the focus for walking and cycling and enable the efficient significant regeneration opportunities at brownfield provision of public transport services. locations that include the Opera Site, the Georgian Quarter, the former Cleeves Site and a state-owned landbank south of Colbert Station.
LIMERICK SHANNON | METROPOLITAN AREA TRANSPORT STRATEGY 7 8 LIMERICK SHANNON | METROPOLITAN AREA TRANSPORT STRATEGY STRATEGY DEVELOPMENT
Key Growth Enabler for LSMA: The approach applied in developing and assessing The resulting LSMATS transport network can best Provision of a citywide public transport the proposed LSMATS 2040 transport measures serve the ambitious projected population and network, with enhanced accessibility was as follows: employment growth in the LSMA, allowing it to develop in a sustainable manner. from the City Centre to the National Review relevant policy and guidance; Establish the baseline transport conditions; Technology Park, UL and Shannon It represents an integrated transport network International Airport. Identify key challenges to be addressed, in offering residents of, and visitors to, the LSMA consultation with key stakeholders; Regional Spatial and Economic Strategy for the Southern Region end-to-end access to high-quality services and the Develop network options based on ability to conveniently access more destinations guiding principles; LSMATS was developed in an iterative manner than the existing network would allow. through extensive technical analysis to provide a Test the transport network options with transport network that underpins the ambitious future land use scenarios set by the NTA and population and employment growth envisaged for local authorities; the LSMA under the NPF to 2040 and beyond. Identify preferred transport strategy; and Public consultation and subsequent finalisation of the Strategy.
The Strategy Outcomes include:
01 02 03 04 05 06 07 T reduce car dependency A scalable transport Prioritised public Enhanced social A Improved public Reduced transport-related A robust economic transport, walking inclusion through the case for transport and cycling in urban provision of a cleaner, LSMA increased demand areas across the equitable transport priority-focussed and physical activity in, greener public transport Limerick-Shannon evidence-based fleet, a modal shift to from significant M A public transport cycling trips in their walking and cycling, a accessibility to areas reduction in private car public transport low emission vehicles
LIMERICK SHANNON | METROPOLITAN AREA TRANSPORT STRATEGY 9 ALKIN
31 i 201 2040 O 5 37 3 S walking trips
4 000 I Enhanced 57 P T S AM peak period
A S 20 T R S 20 Estimated LIMERICK SHANNON | METROPOLITAN AREA TRANSPORT STRATEGY 11 C CLIN
200 AM 9 cycling trips
46 41 40 57 S N N N N
E E T P E S S Strategy cost estimate is approximately 20 €69m (+BusConnects cycle elements) 20 PROPOSED LSMA CYCLE NETWORK
All routes and alignments are indicative and subject to change through the statutory scheme appraisal process. O’Briensbridge
Sixmilebridge
Shannon Clonlara Castleconnell
Ardnacrusha
Bunratty Cratloe Shannon Airport Parteen
Moyross
Knock Hill University of Limerick Castletroy Annacotty
Colbert Station
Dooradoyle Mungret
Patrickswell
Adare 14 LIMERICK SHANNON | METROPOLITAN AREA TRANSPORT STRATEGY WALKING Key outcomes for walking are as follows: The NDP commits to the delivery of cycle networks for all of Ireland’s cities. Translating this at a regional All journeys begin and end by walking irrespective An increase in mode share for all trips, particularly level, the Limerick Metropolitan Cycle Network of other modes used. Though often undervalued, for short journeys; Study and the Shannon Town and Environs Local walking links all modes of transport and is therefore An increase in linked-trips with public transport, Area Plan form the basis of LSMA cycle network. critical to achieving the aims of the Strategy. cycling and other forms of micro-mobility; Additional proposals will align with BusConnects, A fully accessible, safe, and attractive pedestrian LNDR and Park and Rides. The overarching objective for LSMATS is to environment suitable for all ages and abilities; create a pedestrian environment that is be safe, All new and retrofitted schemes will be designed High-quality infrastructure and supporting accessible, interesting and attractive for pedestrians in accordance with the overarching principles set measures are required to cultivate a cycling culture of all ages and abilities. At present, the quality out in DMURS; and in the LSMA, and to give all individuals the choice to of the pedestrian environment across the LSMA cycle, including: is inconsistent with a range of barriers including A higher standard of urban design that prioritises insufficient footpath widths, street clutter and a lack safer and more efficient pedestrian movement Identification of Primary, Secondary, Inter-Urban, of crossing opportunities. over that of the private car. Feeder and Greenway Routes, and Quiet Ways to develop a comprehensive cycle network across CYCLING The Strategy proposes a significantly enhanced the LSMA; Cycling is a low cost, sustainable and growing Walking Network, supported by a number of Facilities designed to National Cycle mode of transport. Limerick City has a lot of measures including wayfinding, permeability, Safe Manual standards; untapped potential to become a haven for cyclists Routes to School and urban design and place- with its flat topography, compact design and the Full or light segregation from other modes to making. Walkability Audits are proposed in the ensure safety and comfort for all road users; short-term to assess the existing network and fact that a journey from the City Centre to the urban Local traffic calming, lower speed limits and inform improvements. edge can be undertaken in less than 30-mins. junction treatments, particularly at complex junctions in an urban context; and Supporting measures including the public Bike Share Scheme, end-of-trip facilities and behavioural change initiatives.
LIMERICK SHANNON | METROPOLITAN AREA TRANSPORT STRATEGY 15 S CONNEC S C O'Connell Street Sarsfield Bridge 1 1 per minute per minute passengers passengers Carrying 19 500 passengers in the AM peak hour
Carrying passengers per annum N 5 of bus lanes 140 4 new buses Strategic Park 137 2 and bus priority of cross city required & Ride sites orbital radial measures routes routes routes
C C M C C E
S 3 123 L S T P R R N O R S nterchange between radial and Strategy cost orbital bus services estimate is approximately €405m PROPOSED LSMA BUS NETWORK
All routes and alignments are indicative and subject to change through the statutory scheme appraisal process. O’Briensbridge
Sixmilebridge
Shannon Clonlara Castleconnell
Ardnacrusha
Bunratty Cratloe Shannon Airport Parteen
Moyross
Knock Hill University of Limerick Castletroy Annacotty
Colbert Station
Dooradoyle Mungret
Patrickswell
Adare 18 LIMERICK SHANNON | METROPOLITAN AREA TRANSPORT STRATEGY Clonlara Castleconnell
Ardnacrusha
PROPOSED LIMERICK CITY BUS PRIORITY MEASURES
All routes and alignments are indicative and subject to change through the statutory scheme appraisal process.
Parteen
Moyross
Knock Hill University of Limerick
Castletroy Annacotty
Colbert Station
Dooradoyle Mungret
Patrickswell 20 LIMERICK SHANNON | METROPOLITAN AREA TRANSPORT STRATEGY BUS CONNECTS Other objectives for the proposed LSMATS bus This would improve journey times and network include: enable an increase in the frequency of services The NPF identifies the provision of a citywide public and connections. transport network, with enhanced accessibility from Significantly improve connectivity to Shannon town, the City Centre to the National Technology Park, UL Airport and Freezone, and other urban centres Further LSMATS rail proposals include: and Shannon Airport, as a key enabler for Limerick. within the LSMA; This aim is consistent with the Climate Action Plan, Provide of bus priority through the reallocation Investigate the potential for a new station NDP and RSES which envisage a significantly of road space from the private car, Advance Bus to support the proposed Park and Ride enhanced bus service in Limerick by 2027. For the Signalisation, bus gates and acquisition of land to at Ballysimon; purposes of assessing the Strategy, a significantly accommodate bus lanes where required; Complete the redevelopment of Colbert rail and enhanced indicative future bus network for 2040 Provide Bus Priority within Limerick City Centre and bus station to provide a more attractive, secure has been developed and refined in an iterative Sarsfield Bridge through reallocation of space from and comfortable experience for passengers, in manner taking into account corridor travel demand general traffic lanes; and line with the project developed by Irish Rail and analysis work. the NTA; and Maintain and enhance regional bus networks and Local Link services. Examine the feasibility of a bus-only link behind The final bus network that will be implemented Colbert Station on Roxboro Road and enhanced A more strategic approach to coach and tourist bus in the short-medium term will require more improved pedestrian, cycle and bus connectivity parking management. detailed service planning and may differ from that to the City Centre. assumed in the LSMATS due to, inter alia, detailed Investigate the potential for rail freight in support operational requirements and changing local traffic RAIL of the proposed Regional Freight Strategy, considerations. BusConnects Limerick has been LSMATS proposes to maximise opportunities offered including the reinstatement of the line between devised based on the following 6 principles: by the existing rail network to enhance regional Limerick and the Port of Foynes; and Capacity; Directness; connectivity. Maximising the potential of the rail corridor will support better integration of land use Examine the feasibility of the provision of new Frequency; Coverage; and planning and public transport. greenways either within disused rail lines or Speed; Interchange. immediately adjacent to existing or proposed The LSMA’s existing rail network provides access to rail corridors. BusConnects Limerick will provide a reliable, Limerick City Centre at Colbert Station from Dublin, Support the masterplanning process recently high-frequency public transport service to improve Ennis and Nenagh. Limerick Junction is an important undertaken by the Land Development Agency connectivity of Limerick City and suburbs. The regional asset interconnecting the Dublin, Cork, and Limerick City and County Council to enhanced BusConnects represents a significant Limerick, Galway and Waterford rail corridors. develop over 100 acres of State-owned land upgrade on the existing system and will comprise around Colbert Station as a Transit Orientated of a more comprehensive network, bus priority In order to enhance this regional and national Development (TOD). and new fleet. It will serve all key destinations connectivity, a key strategic objective of the NPF and and provide interchange with the rail network and identified by the NDP, RSES and Iarnród Éireann, the proposed Park and Ride services. examination of a dual-track between Limerick Colbert and Limerick Junction stations is proposed.
LIMERICK SHANNON | METROPOLITAN AREA TRANSPORT STRATEGY 21 ROA S AN S REE S
R A L H N City Traffic restrictions Roads Distributor Road M P L multi-modal function
M M N M N N1 N19 L Interchange Upgrade L R L R I S
R I S C I T E S I L M Urban Traffic Control Strategy cost estimate is approximately €290m Clonlara Castleconnell
Ardnacrusha PROPOSED ROAD NETWORK
All routes and alignments are indicative and subject to change through the statutory scheme appraisal process.
Parteen
Moyross N Knock Hill University of Limerick
Castletroy Annacotty
Colbert Station
M N Dooradoyle Mungret N LEGEND - KEY INFORMATION Motorway Junction Improvement HGV National Roads Restrictions Northern Distributor Road Northern Distributor Road Other Roads Re-Classified to Toll Regional Road New Roads
M
Patrickswell 24 LIMERICK SHANNON | METROPOLITAN AREA TRANSPORT STRATEGY Clonlara Castleconnell
Ardnacrusha PROPOSED PARK AND RIDE NETWORK
All routes and alignments are indicative and subject to change through the statutory scheme appraisal process.
Parteen
nn s oad Moyross ac e Knock Hill University of Limerick Castletroy Annacotty
Colbert Station
all s on Dooradoyle Mungret
a een
Patrickswell 26 LIMERICK SHANNON | METROPOLITAN AREA TRANSPORT STRATEGY ROADS AND STREETS PARKING Implement maximum parking standards. The road network refers to not only the carriageway There is a long-established link between the Implement a comprehensive on-street parking itself but other highway infrastructure including availability, provision and price of parking and relative management structure including implementation bridges, the Shannon Tunnel, footpaths, cycleways, attractiveness of the private car relative to sustainable of controlled (resident) parking controls. signage, markings and traffic signals. The LSMA has transport options. Judicious management of parking Restrict long-stay parking to PnR and purpose an existing well-developed network of National, should be used as an effective demand management built off-street facilities. Regional and Local roads and streets. In line with tool to discourage private car journeys particularly for the NPF’s objective to achieve Compact Growth, the shorter trips across the LSMA. For longer journeys, FREIGHT, DELIVERY AND SERVICING Strategy seeks to deliver on strategic development the emphasis will be on discouraging through trips To meet NPF growth projections, construction priorities for the distribution of a more compact in urban areas through the provision of Park and of new homes, offices and schools will result in settlement pattern based on ensuring effective Ride facilities and reliable interchange with walking, increased movement of freight. There will also be integration between transport and land-use. This cycling and public transport provision. Strategic Park a greater level of delivery and servicing activity will provide a long-term sustainable economic, and Ride (PnR) entails the provision of high-capacity as well as waste management due to economic environmental and social case for reliable public car parking facilities at designated public transport activity and recent trends in online shopping. transport, permeable, high-quality walking and interchanges on the approach roads to Limerick While presenting challenges in terms of safety, cycling routes and an inclusive, people-centred City (and potentially Shannon). Park and Rides are congestion, air and noise pollution, the clustering of public realm It is the intention of the NTA, TII and a key component of LSMATS and are a means of activities allied to an improvement in the strategic the local authorities to: increasing the catchment of the transport network transport infrastructure offers the possibility of to those that might not otherwise have access Maintain, manage and operate the existing road innovative approaches to mitigate impact of freight via walking, cycling or public transport.Indicative infrastructure in a more efficient manner; activity. locations for Park and Rides are proposed at: Manage the road network to discourage through- traffic in built-up areas; and M7: Newport Roundabout; Key objectives for the management of freight, Prioritise the placemaking functions of the urban M20/N21: Raheen; deliveries and servicing include: street network in line with the hierarchy outlined N18: Ennis Road; and Restrict HGV movements through Limerick city in DMURS. N24: Ballysimon (rail and bus). and neighbourhoods by identifying specific lorry routes and/or time restrictions; Some objectives relating to roads and streets Mobility hubs will be encouraged in regeneration Examine the feasibility of consolidation centres include the following; areas or central areas where low-car, high-density and break-bulk facilities outside of the National M7/N18 Limerick City By-pass housing is planned, such as the LDA Colbert Station road network to facilitate smaller vehicles M20 Cork- Limerick lands to contribute to sustainable transport mode delivering to Limerick City Centre; share targets and reduce the reliance on the private M21/N69 Foynes to Limerick Road Reduce the amount of ‘last mile trips’ being made car particularly for short-trips. (including Adare Bypass) by motorised vehicles; Support the development of a Regional Freight A multi-modal Limerick Northern Distributor Road Effective parking management is required to Strategy; and Junction improvements to provide bus and active control the availability and price of parking. Parking travel priority enforcement is also vital to ensure that footpaths, bus Investigate the feasibility of rail freight from the Port of Foynes to Limerick and further afield. P+R and parking management. lanes and cycle lanes are not blocked by parked cars as this can be a barrier to movement for pedestrians Implementation of these projects in all cases, will and cyclists, especially those with disabilities. It is be subject to s subject to separate. appraisal and recommended that both Local Authorities seek to: environmental assessment.
LIMERICK SHANNON | METROPOLITAN AREA TRANSPORT STRATEGY 27 S RA E O COMES AM M S 2016 - 2040 61.1% 2016 51.8% 2040 28.9% 2016 31% 2040 201 2040 7.9% 2016 13% 2040 2.1% 2016 4.2% 2040
S E R R R O 30 S 7 4 3 9 3 3 4 S
E 37 572 in vehicular emissions
A A S I E C E
P €1.1bn C Social Inclusion: C Present Value of Benefits: €3.2bn PT N P €2.1bn 72 72 7 Total of population of jobs 2 Strategy R 2 Cost Estimate €1.4bn SUPPORTING MEASURES It is a live document, subject to periodic review The plan has disaggregated the strategy every 6 years. It is acknowledged that each of implementation in to three timeframes: Supporting measures play an important role in the major elements proposed in the Strategy is complementing transport infrastructure and services Short-Term: 1-6 years (up to 2026); subject to an individual appraisal based on its to achieve the optimal outcomes of LSMATS. Medium-Term: 7-11 years (up to 2031); and own merits regarding feasibility, design, planning, approval and funding. Long-Term: 13-20 years (to 2040). The full benefits of the significant investment that will be delivered under LSMATS cannot be achieved To achieve the optimum results from LSMATS, STRATEGY OUTCOMES solely through the provision of infrastructure and must Limerick City and County Council and Clare County The implementation of the Strategy’s proposals be combined with the implementation of measures Council will work in collaboration with the National and principles will result in positive outcomes for that support the best use of that infrastructure. Transport Authority, Transport Infrastructure Ireland, the Limerick-Shannon Metropolitan Area, providing the Southern Regional Assembly and other key long-term economic, social and environmental LSMATS’ supporting measures will be essential to the stakeholders to: benefits to the region. creation of physical, social and cultural environments where walking, cycling and public transport are Deliver on the necessary land-use consolidation It will enable the LSMA to grow in a sustainable attractive, practical and logical alternatives to the to achieve compact growth and critical mass; manner in line with growth targets set by the private car. Secure capital investment under the NDP and NPF and RSES, supported by the delivery of an other forms of investment; integrated, reliable and efficient transport network. These initiatives will improve end-to-end trip facilities Implement LSMATS’ transport network, and integration between all modes and improve supporting measures and demand management It should be noted that the modal targets public awareness and perception around sustainable measures; and presented here for walking, cycling and public travel options. Monitor and review progress. transport use are the result of a strategic modelling LSMATS proposes a broad range of ‘hard’ and ‘soft’ process and not envisaged as ceilings or targets. measures to achieve this, including: Costs and Funding Further revisions upwards to the sustainable Appointing Walking and Cycling Officers; The delivery of LSMATS will be subject to the mode shares are expected through the review Local Transport Plans; availability of funding. It is acknowledged that each process as infrastructure is improved and demand Smart Ticketing; of the major elements of LSMATS will be appraised management measures are adopted by both individually on its own merits, in terms of feasibility, Local Authorities. Public Transport Fares; design, planning, approval and funding. Business Car Clubs; cases will be required for each of the major To achieve the optimum results from LSMATS, Workplace and School Travel Planning; infrastructure proposals included in the Strategy, in Limerick City and County Council and Clare Event Management; line with the requirements of the Public Spending County Council will now work in collaboration Code and the Common Appraisal Framework. Urban Design and Place-making; with the National Transport Authority, Transport Infrastructure Ireland, the Southern Regional Mobility as a Service systems; and Phased Implementation Assembly and other key stakeholders to deliver on Dynamic Parking Systems/ Virtual Loading A phased implementation plan has been devised the necessary land-use consolidation to achieve Bay Systems. to incrementally realise the transport infrastructure, compact growth and critical mass; secure capital services and investment over time to align with investment under the NDP and other forms of IMPLEMENTATION the projected growth of the LSMA. The Strategy’s investment; implement LSMATS’ transport network, timeline is cognisant of the NDP and aligned with LSMATS is intended to be scalable, flexible supporting measures and demand management that of the RSES. and future-proofed enough to meet changes in measures; and monitor and review progress. population and employment growth.
LIMERICK SHANNON | METROPOLITAN AREA TRANSPORT STRATEGY 29 IMPLEMENTATION PLAN
TIMEFRAME SHORT TERM MEDIUM TERM LONG TERM (UP TO 2026) (UP TO 2031) (UP TO 2040) WALKING Upgrades and Improvements to Pedestrian Infrastructure Primary Network Secondary Network CYCLING Feeder Network Inter-Urban Greenway BusConnects Implementation BUS Wider Bus Network Improvements Dual-track between Limerick Colbert and Limerick Junction Existing Station Upgrades and Improvements RAIL Electrification of Rail Investigate Potential New Stations Implement Upgrade at Ballycar Delivery of Park and Ride facilities PARKING Implementation of Parking Management Measures Development of a City Centre Traffic Management Strategy Junction Improvements Limerick Northern Distributor Road (LNDR) ROADS M21/N69 Foynes to Limerick Road (including Adare Bypass) AND Delivery of N19 STREETS Design and Planning of N/M20 Progress and Delivery of N/M20 Progress and Delivery of LSMA National and Regional Road Scheme Preparation of a Regional Freight Strategy FREIGHT Preparation of a Local Freight Strategy OTHER Demand Management Measures SUPPORTING Integration Measures MEASURES Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS)
30 LIMERICK SHANNON | METROPOLITAN AREA TRANSPORT STRATEGY LIST OF ACRONYMS
AA Appropriate Assessment LSMATS Limerick Shannon Metropolitan Area Transport Strategy AV Autonomous Vehicles MaaS Mobility as a Service BSS Bicycle Share Scheme MASP Metropolitan Area Strategic Plan CLC Construction Logistics Centre NDP National Development Plan CSO Central Statistics Office NPF National Planning Framework DMURS Design Manual for Urban Roads and Streets NPO National Policy Objective DTTaS Department for Transport Tourism and Sport NSO National Strategic Objective EU European Union NTA National Transport Authority EV Electric Vehicle NTP National Technology Park EVCP Electric Vehicle Charging Point TOD Transit Orientated Development HGV Heavy Goods Vehicle RSES Regional Spatial and Economic Strategy ITS Intelligent Transport System RTPI Real Time Passenger Information LIT Limerick Institute of Technology SEA Strategic Environmental Assessment LNDR Limerick Northern Distributor Road TII Transport Infrastructure Ireland LSMA Limerick Shannon Metropolitan Area UL University of Limerick