Slower Speeds, Safer Roads

The Government is committed to reducing speed limits on Irish roads to improve safety and save lives.

These changes form part of the Road Safety Strategy 2021–2030, which aims to cut road deaths and serious injuries by 50% by 2030 and to achieve Vision Zero by 2050.

Lower speeds reduce the risk and severity of collisions. They help make communities safer and more liveable for everyone.

What has already changed

In February 2025, the default speed limit on rural local roads was reduced from 80km/h to 60km/h. This change applies across much of the rural road network and was the first phase of the national speed limit review.

The impact of these changes is being monitored through traffic speed and collision data to help inform future road safety measures.

Current Changes to Urban Speed Limits

The next phase focuses on urban and built‑up areas. Speed limits on many urban roads will be reduced from 50km/h to 30km/h, particularly on residential streets and in town and village centres.

Changes from 50km/h to 30km/h will be introduced by local authorities allowing time for consultation, legal processes and signage installation, with nationwide implementation expected by 31 March 2027.

Slower speeds create safer streets, support walking and cycling, and reduce the risk of serious injury for all road users.

Speed limit changes will be clearly signposted where they apply, and road users are asked to observe new limits as they come into effect.

For more information, see the links and resources below.