Limerick Chamber urges Government to release €2.2 Million for critical Mackey Roundabout Upgrade

Mackey Roundabout pictured above

Chamber highlights urgent safety and economic development risks due to persistent traffic congestion at Mackey Roundabout

Limerick Chamber have formally requested the immediate allocation of €2.2 million in funding from the Minister for Transport to advance the next stage of improvement works at the Mackey Roundabout.  In a letter to Minister Darragh O’Brien TD and other local representatives, the Chamber emphasised the project’s critical importance for regional safety and economic development.

The Mackey Roundabout, located at the eastern gateway to Limerick city, serves as a major interchange connecting the M7, R445, R503 and Dublin Road. It is a primary access point for the National Technology Park and the University of Limerick, serving thousands of commuters and businesses daily.

Persistent congestion and safety issues have long been a concern.  The Limerick-Shannon Metropolitan Transport Strategy (LSMATS) 2022 identified the roundabout as one of four major congestion pinch points in the region.  While initial work has been completed, the project requires further investment to proceed.

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“This €2.2 million investment is essential to demonstrate the Government’s commitment to supporting safe, efficient, and sustainable transport infrastructure for Limerick’s growing population and business community,” said Michelle Gallagher, CEO of Limerick Chamber. “Businesses are frustrated by transport delays that impact staff, customers, and logistics. Progressing the Mackey Roundabout improvements now would send a clear message that Limerick remains a priority for national transport investment.”

The upgrade is detailed in Measure RS5 of LSMATS, which commits to managing congestion and improving safety at the junction while providing a new direct transport link into the National Technology Park and the University of Limerick. The site is also earmarked for a future Park and Ride facility, making it a key node in the region’s long-term transport plans.

Mrs. Gallagher noted that the “failure to resource the Mackey roundabout works, as well as the delay to BusConnects by two years is not good enough and is causing serious concerns for the business community regarding transport provision in Limerick”