COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

South Dublin County Council Crest

MEETING OF LUCAN / PALMERSTOWN / NORTH CLONDALKIN AREA COMMITTEE

Tuesday, January 28, 2025

MOTION NO.1

MOTION: Councillor L. O'Toole

Cathaoirleach's Business

This motion calls for the necessary changes to the bus lane along Newcastle Road, a matter that has been raised multiple times on ACM and TMM agendas. While the importance of an 'active travel policy' in designing streets, roads, parks, and other infrastructure is acknowledged, it must also be recognised that this specific location has been identified as problematic. When a policy does not address or resolve the daily challenges faced by residents and road users, adjustments must be made to meet practical needs. In light of these concerns, we request the removal of the bus lane from the park entrance to the junction. This request has been supported by extensive discussions, including numerous emails to senior management and phone calls addressing the issue. The road markings in this area are over 15 years old, the bus stop has low usage, and the reduced bus service further diminishes the need for the bus lane. We urge that this motion be acted upon to improve safety and functionality for all road users.

REPORT:

The executive acknowledge that this issue has been raised several times in recent times.  The executive responses to previous queries have outlined the importance of preserving the existing bus lane which supports the national policy for sustainable movement. 

In drafting our previous responses, we have contacted our external transport stakeholders the NTA in relation to possibly making adjustments to the existing bus lane layout.  The NTA have said that they would not be in favour of reducing the bus lane coverage at this location.  It would set a counterproductive precedent to remove bus lane to promote car use.

SDCC will improve the safety by reviewing the marking and lining and other measures to strengthen the segregation between the bus lane and the carriageway.  SDCC will also contact the Gardai to monitor the bus lane use and enforce misuse where detected.