Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 30 November 2023
292. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport to indicate the extent of efforts to address the serious traffic congestion in Maynooth, County Kildare, provision for which was made some ten years ago via LIHAF funding and, given the almost total traffic shutdown at peak times, if seriously urgent steps can be taken to address the situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53121/23]
View answer293. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport to indicate the extent to which traffic management measures previously scheduled for Naas, County Kildare are currently in hand with a view to early implementation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53123/23]
View answer294. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport to indicate the extent, if any, to which traffic alleviation/management proposals for Celbridge, County Kildare are currently being advanced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53125/23]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 292, 293 and 294 together.
The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for transport planning in the Greater Dublin Area (GDA), which includes County Kildare, and the making of a transport strategy for the region is a core function of the NTA. The Transport Strategy for the Greater Dublin Area 2022-2042, which I approved earlier this year, sets out a statutory framework for transport investment across the region over a 20 year period and provides a clear statement of transport planning policy for the GDA.
One of the objectives of the transport strategy is to fully integrate land use planning and transport planning, as a means of reducing travel demand both in terms of numbers of trips made and the length of trips. The strategy also recognises that as towns in the GDA, such as Celbridge, Maynooth and Naas grow, there will be a need to ensure that the transport environment and public realm are developed in a way that favours sustainable mobility and the transition to a zero-carbon transport system.
Noting the NTA’s responsibility in the matter raised, I have referred the Deputy’s questions to the NTA for a more detailed reply on the specific towns referenced. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.
