New bus corridor updates

THE National Transport Authority (NTA) has published updates to its controversial plans for core bus corridors through Stoneybatter and Phibsborough.

The Northside corridors are two of 16 in the BusConnects programme that aims to build 230kms of dedicated bus lanes and 200kms of cycle tracks across the capital.

However, the initial plans have met with opposition in some areas with locals concerned about the loss of trees, green spaces and in some cases, part of their front gardens.

The NTA has established community forums as part of the public consultation process and says it is responding to a number of the concerns with revised proposals that were published last week.

The ‘work in progress’ designs include adjustments but the NTA remains open to further changes.

The revised design for Stoneybatter includes a green plaza at the junction of Prussia, Aughrim and Manor Streets for cyclists and pedestrians.

Southbound traffic from the North Circular Road would be restricted to local access only on Prussia Street meaning there would be no direct access to Stoneybatter.

Motorists wanting to get to the urban village from the NCR face a lengthy detour down Infirmary Road, Parkgate Street, North Quays and Blackhall Place.

A delegation from Stoneybatter Pride of Place met with the NTA recently to get an outline of the latest proposals.

“While acknowledging that the revised proposals are an improvement on the original proposal there are still many questions to be resolved,” the group posted on Facebook.

“We have submitted a list of questions to the NTA and await their response.”

The revised plans for Phibsborough include urban improvements such as tree planting and a cutting edge cycle path running along the back of Mountjoy Prison and under the North Circular Road.

The cycle lane would cross a pedestrian bridge over the Royal Canal at Cross Guns Snooker Club at the point where the canal originally started in 1790.

The lane would allow cyclists to bypass Phibsborough village and it would link in with the ongoing development of the 145km Royal Canal Greenway.

The Phibsborough redesign could also end an impasse for the redevelopment of Phibsborough Shopping Centre as it removes a section of the car park in front of Tesco that the supermarket wants to retain for deliveries.

There are also plans for traffic calming measures at Doyle’s Corner and speed reductions will be in place.

The NTA say the new redesigns are part of its commitment to continue a dialogue exploring possible arrangements before plans are finalised.

“Over the next number of months we will continue considering the submissions from the public consultation and determine appropriate design amendments with a view to selecting the preferred route option for each core bus corridor,” a spokesperson said.

A second round of public consultations for the Core Bus Corridor will take place in November but public forum meetings will continue next month.

Local councillor Mary Fitzpatrick (FF) said if BusConnects is to succeed motorists needed to be given an alternative to driving into the city.

“The NTA must include provision for Park & Ride facilities and free or more affordable public bus service in their proposals,” she said.

“Workers, residents and visitors to Dublin need a bus service that makes it easier, affordable and environmentally sustainable to get around the city.”