Ireland’s urban speed-limit plan falls short of default 30 km/h approach

Ireland’s revised policy on urban speed limits stops short of introducing a national default 30 km/h limit, a measure already adopted in Spain and Wales and planned in Greece.

Under new instructions from the Department of Transport, local authorities will review existing limits and introduce 30 km/h zones “where appropriate” by March 2027. Unlike the recommendation in the government’s 2023 Speed Limit Review, the framework does not set 30 km/h as the default for all built-up areas. Instead, councils must adopt bye-laws, run consultations and secure approval from elected members before changes take effect.

ETSC regrets that Ireland has stepped back from a clear national default. International experience shows why a default works. Spain applies 30 km/h on most urban streets nationwide, and Wales has also introduced a 20 mph (32 km/h) default on residential roads. Greece is preparing similar national changes.

Evidence continues to build that lower default urban speeds save lives and reduce serious injuries. A recent review by the National Technical University of Athens found that citywide 30 km/h limits are associated with sizable reductions in serious road injuries and deaths, as well as declines in noise and emissions, and increased walking and cycling.

Lower speeds in towns and cities protect pedestrians and cyclists, reduce crash severity and support active travel. ETSC welcomes the commitment to review limits and fund implementation, but urges Ireland to set a national default in line with emerging European best practice.