Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 6 July 2010
319 Deputy Chris Andrews asked the Minister for Transport the research carried out by his Department in respect of the possible introduction of cycle contraflow lanes in Dublin; if he will consider the introduction of a cycle contraflow scheme on a pilot basis; if not, the reason for same in view of the fact that other major European cities have such facilities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29192/10]
View answerThe research which preceded the production of the National Cycle Policy Framework (NCPF) identified the potential of contra-flow cycling lanes in improving the permeability of our cities and towns for cycling and the NCPF refers to this possibility.
My Department is aware that a contra-flow cycle lane has been operational for some considerable time in St Andrew's Street in Dublin and is also aware of the operation of a pilot contra-flow cycle lane in Galway during the recent National Bike Week.
It is possible for local authorities to introduce contra-flow cycle lanes under the current legal framework. As a matter of principle, I would encourage their use in appropriate locations, subject to adequate attention being given on a case by case basis to issues such as the management of traffic from such lanes at junctions, and wider safety issues for users.
