The recent approval by An Bord Pleanála of the Foynes to Limerick Road development is a welcome boost at a time of increasing global instability when energy security and climate change are top of the agenda.

This is the view of Shannon Chamber CEO Helen Downes, who, in welcoming the announcement stated that the approval is but the initial stage in a process but that the project must remain a priority deliverable.

“The current road infrastructure connecting Foynes and the Shannon Estuary to the national motorway network is totally inadequate given the potential that can be derived from alternative energy sources to combat the impact of climate change.

“The port’s position as a key hub in the region’s and nation’s logistics’ supply chain cannot be overlooked. Access to the port has to be enhanced; it is an asset with underutilised potential,” Ms Downes stated.

Considering the anticipated boost to visitor numbers from the upcoming KPMG Women’s Irish Open in Dromoland Castle later this month, Ms Downes said these numbers will increase manifold with the hosting of the Ryder Cup in Adare in 2027.

“Adare will be the centre of the golfing world for this major event. Now is the time to plan for the delivery of the road infrastructure to accommodate this increase in road traffic. Delays caused by snail-paced car movements is not the advertisement we want for a sporting event of this magnitude.

“The timeline for the completion of the Foynes to Limerick Road development project is therefore time bound and cannot be delayed,” added Ms Downes.