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Traffic Management

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 3 November 2020

Tuesday, 3 November 2020

Ceisteanna (465)

Bernard Durkan

Ceist:

465. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the steps being taken to prepare a traffic management plan for the Phoenix Park; when it is expected that the public consultation process will be undertaken in view of the fact that the situation with vehicular parking is nearing out of control and that vulnerable road users are unable to utilise the park to the fullest extent possible; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32866/20]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

I have requested the Office of Public Works to work with other key stakeholders, including the National Transport Authority, Dublin City Council and Fingal County Council to examine the issues relating to access in the Phoenix Park. A Steering Group has been established at CEO level, to oversee the process of developing new transport and mobility options for the Park. By engaging with these organisations, I hope to ensure that future plans for access and mobility to and within the Park are integrated with the wider traffic and transport plans for Dublin City and surrounding areas.

This approach ought to ensure that well-considered options, suitable from an operational perspective, can be identified and taken forward for public consultation. I have asked the Steering Group to revert to me with a report including proposed options by the end of this month. The next step will be to bring these forward to public consultation early in 2021 and I hope to publish the final plans for implementation of the preferred options soon thereafter.

With regard to Level 5 COVID-19 restrictions as recently published by the Government, parks continue to remain open with protective measures in place. While the Phoenix Park is experiencing high levels of demand and large volumes of visitors, it should be noted that there are 1,350 dedicated car parking spaces within the Park and a further 650 spaces at Farmleigh. Staff with responsibility for patrolling the Park closely monitor traffic in the Park and have installed temporary parking control measures at key locations over busy weekends. OPW encourages all visitors to the Park to comply with the 5Km travel restrictions, to use sustainable modes of transport where possible and, if they must arrive by car, that they park responsibly.

An Garda Síochána also monitors traffic and associated activities including parking within and adjacent to the Phoenix Park. It has recently requested, in the interest of public safety, that the side perimeter gates of the Park be closed at weekends from October 31st for the duration of Level 5 restrictions.

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