Regional road (Ireland)

A regional road in Ireland is a class of road below national primary roads and national secondary roads. These roads form an important part of the Irish road network, providing connections between towns, villages, and rural areas. They are designated with an "R" prefix followed by a three-digit number (e.g., R123).

Regional roads are generally maintained by the local authorities (county councils) in the areas they traverse, although Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) provides funding for their upkeep and improvement. The quality and characteristics of regional roads can vary considerably, ranging from relatively wide and well-surfaced roads to narrow, winding, and poorly surfaced lanes, particularly in more rural areas.

Unlike national roads, regional roads are not intended for long-distance travel and often pass directly through built-up areas, frequently subject to speed limits lower than those on national routes. They serve a crucial function in facilitating local access and connectivity within their respective regions. The alignment and improvement of regional roads are often subjects of local planning and development considerations.