Gardaí release traffic plan ahead of Munster clash in Thomond Park

The match, scheduled for a 5pm kick-off, is expected to draw thousands of fans to the stadium and surrounding areas. Picture: Brendan Moran/Sportsfile

With excitement building for the sold-out clash between Munster and the All Blacks XV this Saturday, gardaí in Limerick have released important traffic management and safety information for all attending the event at Thomond Park. 

The match, scheduled for a 5pm kick-off, is expected to draw thousands of fans to the stadium and surrounding areas.

To ensure smooth access, road safety, and a positive match-day experience, gardaí introduced several traffic measures and diversions that will be in effect around Thomond Park and nearby roads from 3pm to 9pm on the day.

Key Traffic Arrangements 

Open Bridges: Thomond Bridge, Sarsfield Bridge, and the New Shannon Bridge will remain open to two-way traffic throughout the event.

Cratloe Road Closure: Cratloe Road, from Hassetts Cross (junction with Shelbourne Road & Kileely Road) to the TUS Roundabout (junction with Old Cratloe Road/Brookville Avenue), will be closed from 3pm to 9pm. 

Inbound traffic will be diverted along Brookville Avenue and Ivans Cross onto the Ennis Road. Outbound traffic on Sexton Street North will be diverted to Shelbourne or Kileely Road.

Restricted Stadium Parking: No general parking will be available on Thomond Park grounds. 

Access is limited to vehicles with a pre-issued pass from stadium management, including vehicles with special needs. 

Parking restrictions will also apply in nearby residential areas, and vehicles violating these restrictions may be impounded.

Diversion and Road Closure Details 

Multiple diversions will be in place for traffic intending to access major routes, including the northern ring road (N7) and routes inbound from Moyross, Parteen, and Long Pavement. 

Key road closures from 3pm include:

• Ennis Road at Lansdowne Park Entrance 
• Shelbourne Road Upper at intersections with Shelbourne Park, Shelbourne Avenue, and Mayorstone Drive
• Cratloe Road at several points, including its junctions with Old Cratloe Road and Mayorstone Avenue 
• Kileely Road at Ballynanty Road 
• Knockalisheen Road/Ballygrennan Road at the red gate

Access for local Bus Éireann services, adapted vehicles, and vehicles with resident permits will be allowed, though access on Cratloe Road is restricted to Bus Éireann services only between Hassetts Cross and the TUS Roundabout.

Parking and Transportation Recommendations 

Supporters are strongly advised to use city centre parking facilities, which offer both on-street and car park options, and to arrive early. 

For convenience, fans can also consider walking from the city centre (a 15–20-minute walk) or using the available city bus service and park-and-ride facilities. 

Patrons requiring wheelchair-accessible parking are encouraged to contact the Thomond Park ticket office.