It is likely that a speed limit of 100kmph will be reinstated on the old N6 between Athlone and Rochfortbridge following a period of consultation, commenced this week.
The stretch of road, which was renamed the R446 following the opening of the M6 motorway, currently has a speed limit of 80 kmph, as this is the default speed for regional roads.
However, senior roads engineer Michael Connolly told councillors at Monday’s county council meeting that as the road is of such a high standard, it is felt that the bye-laws should be amended to allow for a more appropriate speed limit of 100kmph.
The 40 kilometre stretch of the R446 in question runs from the Birr turn-off at Fardrum just outside Athlone, to Rochfortbridge, passing through the villages of Moate, Horseleap, Kilbeggan, and Tyrrellspass, which will retain their lower speed limits.
Moate’s Cllr Tom Allen said he was delighted with the move. “It is ridiculous for a road of such a high standard to have a speed limit of 80,” he said.
