Lower speed limits are set to be introduced across Waterford City and County as part of the next phase of a road safety review.

At the latest Plenary meeting of Waterford City and County Council, revised speed limit by-laws have been approved, with changes expected to come into effect during the first quarter of 2027.

Director of Roads Gabriel Hynes told councillors the measures form part of national road safety policy and the council’s own road safety plan, with the aim of reducing fatalities and injuries.

Under the changes, existing 30 kilometre-per-hour zones in parts of Waterford City and Dungarvan will be reduced to 20 kilometres per hour.

A number of other urban areas currently operating at 50 kilometres per hour will move to 30.

Periodic 30 kilometre-per-hour limits are also planned around urban schools during school hours, where they can be introduced.

The speed limit through the centre of Lemybrien is set to fall from 60 to 50 kilometres per hour.

The limit on the N25 approaching Dungarvan beyond Cushcam Junction will also be reduced from 100 to 60 kilometres per hour.

Councillors broadly welcomed the review, although several raised concerns over the pace of changes around schools.

Councillor and Mayor of the Waterford Metropolitan District Lola O’Sullivan said there was ‘huge disappointment’ in the Metro District that lower limits around schools were not being introduced quickly enough.

Councillor Jim Griffin also called for continued investment in physical traffic-calming measures including speed tables, ramps and chicanes, arguing that signage alone would not slow every driver.

Mr. Hynes said the council would fast-track the introduction of periodic school signs as much as possible.

He added that a significant amount of work will be required to replace signage before the new limits can take effect.

The council also confirmed that the public will be notified in advance, with newspaper advertisements and social media notices expected around a month before the new limits come into force.

The revised speed limits are expected to be introduced in the first quarter of 2027.