Plans for the final phase of new bus corridors in Dublin have been revealed.
The National Transport Authority (NTA) has released details of phase three of the BusConnects project.
The overhaul of the capital's bus network will create 230km of dedicated bus lanes and 200km of cycle lanes.
It's focused on 16 of the busiest routes in and out of the city centre.
The latest phase covers six bus corridors:
- Ballymun to the City Centre (Option A & B)
- Finglas to Phibsborough
- Bray to the City Centre
- UCD Ballsbridge to the City Centre
- Blackrock to Merrion
- Ringsend to the City Centre
According to the NTA, annual passenger growth on Dublin Bus services on the corridors in question has increased by 18% between 2015 and 2018.
However, they say that commuters are also facing increased congestion on roads and frequent delays.
Officials are aiming to significantly improve the situation for commuters, and in some cases looking to shorten journey times by up to 20 minutes compared to current times.
BusConnects plans. Image: NTADetails of all the proposed route changes and 'preferred routes' are now available on the BusConnects website.
BusConnects public consultation
Members of the public are now being asked to give feedback on the plans.
390 homeowners along the routes involved may lose part of their gardens, and those potentially affected have been contacted.
They've also been invited to one-on-one meetings with officials.
The NTA says public engagement in the consultation process during previous phases has been encouraging.
Officials say the process has already "suggested a number of solutions", such as an alternative layout at Santry on the Swords to City Centre route
Anne Graham of the NTA explained: "We are eager to hear the concerns of all those potentially impacted and ensure they are updated at every step of the project.
"The Community Forums rolled out in recent weeks allow a continuous two-way dialogue with community leaders, residents’ associations, special interest groups and public representatives. The dates of the forums for phase three corridors will be finalised very shortly.
“With the city due to grow by 25% and congestion one of the most significant challenges facing the Dublin region, the BusConnects Core Bus Corridor project is needed now more than ever."
Details on how to send a submission can be found on the BusConnects website, with the consultation process continuing until April 30th.
