COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL
MEETING OF SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL
Monday, April 11, 2016
MOTION NO.8
MOTION: Councillor P. Donovan
That the Council appoints a dedicated cycling officer to develop policies and programs to support the implementation of the Development plan that contributes
to medium and long benefits of increased cycling in our county including:
- 1. Initiatives and incentives that use cycling to combat rising levels of obesity
- 2. Reduced traffic congestion
- 3. Reduced transport emissions
- 4. More vibrant living spaces
REPORT:
There is a significant level of activity supporting the implementation of cycling policy as set out in the County Development Plan and the National Transport Authority Greater Dublin Area Strategic Cycle Network. In terms of infrastructure provision key routes have been identified and a number of these have been completed with others at construction, design and consultation stage. In addition a Cycle Forum has been established under the Transportation SPC, the draft terms of reference of the group includes:
Educational/ Promotional role –
- Sharing of information and advice on cycling issues
- Support cycle training programmes / initiatives
- Promote and encourage responsible cycling
Consultative role:-
- Comment on and influence National and Council policies, strategies and plans that impact upon cyclists
- Observations and suggestions on existing cycle infrastructure
- Input into the future development of cycling facilities.
Input, Monitoring and Reviewing role:-
- Identify problem areas in the County which reduce uptake of cycling
- Condition of cycle routes
- Proposals for new cycle schemes
- Progress updates on implementing cycling initiatives
A representative from the HSE Healthy Cities Initiative is now joining the group which will enhance the focus on the health and fitness benefits of cycling.
The cycle forum and projects to implement cycling policies are co-ordinated and supported by the Staff of both the Transportation and Planning Departments, the Director and Senior Executive Officer, Land Use Planning and Transportation, and is not considered necessary to appoint a dedicated Cycling Officer.