traffic management – Eire Now

Exciting Developments in Collooney: Trial of New One-Way Traffic System Underway

localeadmin — Fri, 30 Aug 2024 13:02:22 +0000

In an exciting development for the residents and businesses of Collooney, a new trial one-way system has been launched with widespread support, heralding a potential transformation in local traffic management. Spearheaded by local Councillor Thomas Healy, this initiative comes after years of extensive campaigning and public consultations, marking a significant milestone in the community’s efforts to streamline urban mobility.

The trial, set to last six months, was initiated following detailed discussions and planning sessions that included input from various stakeholders. According to Councillor Healy, “The introduction of this one-way system is the culmination of persistent efforts and comprehensive consultations that took place recently. The overwhelming support from local businesses, residents, and the general public has been instrumental in bringing this project to fruition.” The new traffic route will begin at McKim’s shop and extend to the lower end of the town, promising to alleviate longstanding congestion issues that have plagued the main street.

Sligo County Council has committed to rigorous monitoring of the system throughout the trial period to ensure its efficacy. Additionally, the re-introduction of the Local Link Coolaney to Sligo 981 bus service, which will now travel back up the Barrack Road, addresses a crucial mobility gap that had impacted many locals. This adjustment in the bus route is particularly significant, as it resolves the major inconveniences faced by residents who previously had to travel outside the village to access bus services.

The persistent traffic snarls and delays that led to buses getting stuck on the main street have been a point of major concern for years. The new system aims to rectify these issues, enhancing the overall flow of vehicles and significantly improving the daily commute for many.

Councillor Healy expressed his gratitude towards the various council departments involved in the project, “I want to extend my deepest thanks to the Chief Executive of Sligo County Council and the engineering roads department. Their dedication and hard work have been pivotal in implementing this crucial infrastructure, which we believe will greatly benefit everyone in the area.”

This trial represents a proactive step by the Sligo County Council to engage with community needs and develop solutions that enhance the quality of life for its citizens. Should the trial prove successful, it could serve as a model for other towns facing similar challenges, demonstrating the benefits of active civic engagement and strategic planning in urban development.

Dublin City Council to Ban Cars from City Centre from August 2024

localeadmin — Thu, 25 Jul 2024 23:20:18 +0000

Dublin City Council has confirmed that its new traffic management plan, aimed at significantly reducing car traffic in the city center, will commence next month. Despite facing opposition from local businesses and various stakeholders, the council is determined to proceed with the plan, which promises to transform urban mobility and enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors alike.

Overview of the Dublin Traffic Plan

The Dublin traffic plan is designed to decrease general traffic by 40% and promote alternative modes of transport such as walking, cycling, and public transport. Key measures include the closure of The Quays to private vehicles, allowing only buses, bikes, and taxis, and making Parliament Street traffic-free. The council also intends to reallocate sections of the North and South Quays exclusively for public transport, pedestrians, and cyclists.

Benefits and Challenges

The plan draws lessons from the traffic patterns observed during the COVID-19 pandemic, which saw reduced vehicle volumes and allowed for ambitious changes in traffic management. The council believes that reducing car traffic will alleviate bus delays and improve overall transit efficiency. Green Party Councillor Michael Pidgeon emphasized that buses, carrying significantly more passengers than private cars, will benefit the most from these changes.

However, the plan has sparked concerns among local businesses. Dublin Town, a business advocacy group, argues that the plan could negatively impact city centre accessibility and trade. They highlight potential issues with service access for deliveries and repairs, and fear that shoppers may shift to suburban retail parks, potentially increasing overall emissions contrary to the plan’s environmental goals.

Addressing Opposition

In response to these concerns, the council has committed to ongoing consultations with business owners and other stakeholders. They aim to address logistical challenges and ensure that the implementation of the traffic plan considers the practical needs of the business community. Despite these efforts, the opposition remains vocal, with some businesses even fundraising for legal and public relations campaigns against the plan.

Moving Forward

The Dublin traffic plan is part of a broader objective within the Dublin City Development Plan 2022-2028. It aligns with European Union directives aimed at improving urban liveability by reducing car dependency. While the full impact of the plan will unfold over the coming months, the council is confident that these changes will ultimately lead to a more sustainable and accessible city centre.