Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 28 April 2021
310. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the progress made to date in relation to greater bicycle and pedestrian priority through and around the Phoenix Park; and his plans to incorporate the use of electric scooters in the park and to ensure the safety of all users as a result of such measures [21593/21]
View answerThe Phoenix Park Transport and Mobility Options Study was promulgated on the 11th January 2021. This study examined a range of transport and mobility options for the park with an emerging preferred option being identified which seeks to reposition the Phoenix Park as an important natural resource for the citizens of Dublin and further afield, while seeking to reduce through traffic over the medium to long term.
This preferred option will significantly improve pedestrian and cycling safety while also providing more sustainable transport options for those working in the park and accessing its visitor attractions and amenities. It recommends the upgrade of over 7 km of footpaths along with strategic pedestrian crossing points on Chesterfield Avenue and other key locations throughout the Park, including the Gate entrances. Further expansion and upgrade of the cycle network within the Park and linkages to the external networks is recommended. This will involve the creation of 14 km of new cycle lanes and the upgrade of over 17 kms of existing cycle lanes within the Park and at Park entrances. A reduction in the speed limit is also recommended.
The Phoenix Park Transport and Mobility Study public consultation commenced in late January and concluded in mid March with over 2,200 submissions being received. An analysis of all the submissions received is currently being undertaken and, subject to approval of the final recommendations, OPW will seek to implement these recommendations in the report within the published timelines contained in the final report.
Another key recommendation in the report is that OPW would review the existing bye-laws pertaining to the Phoenix Park. The OPW review will include consideration of new provisions relating to electric scooters, and this work will be informed by Government Policy from the Department of Transport. The Department has proposed the drafting of legislation which will allow for the regulation of e-scooters and e-bikes in the forthcoming Road Traffic (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill.
