Major Dublin events face transport crisis, say bus operators

CTTC Chairperson, Willie Martin, highlighted the issue, stating, “We witnessed the efficiency with which coaches could access Boucher Playing Fields in Belfast for the Bruce Springsteen concerts this summer.

“With half the capacity of Croke Park, Belfast nonetheless had double the number of coaches and minibuses serving the event, thanks to better proximity to the venue.

“Unfortunately, in Dublin, patrons attending events at Croke Park are often forced to walk up to 45 minutes from the designated coach parking area to the stadium.

“This situation is unacceptable, especially for passengers with limited mobility or those accompanying young children.” 

This lack of adequate facilities has led to a marked decline in the use of commercial bus services for large events in Dublin.

Chair of the CTTC, William Martin (left) and Vice-Chair, David Conway (Credit: Rockwood Public Affairs)

The CTTC contends that the current arrangements do not meet the needs of coach operators or their passengers, which is contributing to a shift away from group transport via bus and back towards private car use.

This shift not only exacerbates congestion but also undermines efforts to promote more sustainable modes of transport. 

The CTTC has pointed to international examples of cities that provide far better support for coach transport at major events.

In cities such as London, Berlin, and Paris, buses are allowed to drop off and pick up passengers directly outside stadiums, making it easier for concertgoers and sports fans to access venues. Coaches are often able to wait on-site for passengers to finish their events, ensuring a smooth and efficient transportation experience. 

“The situation in Dublin needs immediate attention, before an all-out transport crisis occurs for such large-scale events” added Martin.

“If we continue to push patrons back towards car use by failing to provide adequate bus facilities, we are not only ignoring the needs of our passengers but also contributing to worsening traffic congestion and increased carbon emissions.

“Dublin is a capital city, and it should provide the same standard of accessibility and service as other major capitals.”

The CTTC is calling on event organisers, local authorities, and the government to urgently review and improve traffic management plans for major events not just in Dublin but for major events throughout Ireland.

These plans must include better facilities for commercial coaches, including drop-off zones that are close to venues, sufficient parking for buses, facilities for drivers and the ability for coaches to remain on-site until passengers are ready to depart.

Without such improvements, Ireland risks falling further behind other European cities in terms of event accessibility and sustainability. 

The CTTC stands ready to work with all stakeholders to ensure that Dublin and Ireland as a whole can offer a world-class experience for customers attending major events, while also supporting the continued growth of the coach and bus industry.