Planning and design is to begin on the N/M20 Cork to Limerick Road Improvement Scheme after a major contract was awarded.

The scheme, which is the biggest infrastructure project outside of Dublin, will connect the two cities with an improved transport network which will address road safety issues associated with the existing N20 route.

Barry Transportation, along with Technical Advisors WSP And Sweco, will provide all engineering, environmental, economic and appraisal services required to deliver the project through these planning and design phases.

The project is a part of Project Ireland 2040 and will be delivered by Limerick City and County Council in partnership with Cork County Council, Cork City Council, Tipperary County Council, the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport, and Transport Infrastructure Ireland.

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Mayor of the City and County of Limerick Cllr James Collins said: "This project is critical for the economic development of Limerick and the wider region along the Atlantic Corridor. It will save lives and improve the quality of life for those who rely on this transport corridor for business, work, study and tourism."

Conn Murray, Chief Executive of Limerick City and County Council added: "This project is identified in Project Ireland 2040 National Development Plan as a major enabler for balanced regional development by substantially delivering the Atlantic Corridor, with a high quality road network linking Limerick, Cork and Galway.

"Limerick City and County Council welcomes the appointment of the Technical Advisors. Together with our partners in the local authorities in Cork and Tipperary, the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport and Transport Infrastructure Ireland, we are committed to delivering this major national infrastructural project."

(CM/JG)