Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 22 June 2023
64. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to a number of active travel interventions by Cork City Council that have decreased accessibility for those with mobility issues or disabilities and, in some instances, caused serious concern for cyclists; and the level of engagement he has had on these issues. [30089/23]
View answerAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to Active Travel. Funding is administered through the National Transport Authority (NTA), who, in partnership with local authorities, have responsibility for the selection and development of specific projects in each local authority area. Cork City Council received an allocation of just under €35 million under the NTA's Active Travel Programme in 2023.
It is important that measures are taken to protect all road users, particularly our most vulnerable users including pedestrians, cyclists and those with disabilities. In order for this to happen, certain design standards and guidance must be applied to each infrastructure project funded by Exchequer funding. To this end, a National Guidelines and Standards Group has been established within my Department to oversee and coordinate all guidelines and standards (including cycling and other Active Travel projects) which have been developed by TII, the NTA and Department of Transport.
It also covers the areas of quality control, training and implementation monitoring. Any new Active Travel infrastructure funded by my Department must be designed in compliance with the guidance and standards set out in the National Cycle Manual, which is currently being revised and updated. This work has been underway for over a year and is geared to reflect best practice including improving design standards. In support of this, the Department of Transport is also working on updates supporting the Design Manual for Urban Roads and Streets (DMURS).
In response to the Deputy's specific question, the Department of Transport has been made aware of concerns relating to some Active Travel projects in Cork City which have been communicated to the NTA. My officials will continue to engage with the NTA, who in turn will liaise with the local authority, to explore these concerns and take any necessary action.
