COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

MEETING OF LUCAN / PALMERSTOWN / NORTH CLONDALKIN AREA COMMITTEE

Tuesday, March 25, 2025

MOTION NO.12

MOTION: Councillor J. Sheehy

To ask the Chief Executive to install flashing lights at the pedestrian crossing at Clothurst.

REPORT:

The Department of Transport (DoT), supported by the National Transport Authority (NTA), conducted trials on zebra crossings without flashing beacons in Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown and Limerick. These trials were informed by international studies from countries such as:

• The Netherlands
• France
• Germany
• Switzerland
• Australia
• New Zealand

The trials aimed to assess the feasibility of removing the requirement for flashing beacons, as their installation adds complexity and cost due to the need for a power connection on both sides of the road. The findings demonstrated that crossings could function effectively without beacons, allowing for a more cost-effective and sustainable approach to increasing safe pedestrian and active travel crossing points.

 

Legislation Update

Following the success of these trials, the Department of Transport updated its guidance in February 2024, permitting zebra crossings without flashing beacons.

 

New Pedestrian Crossing at Castle Road, Lucan

This crossing has been installed on a raised ramp using the RUS 066 sign, in compliance with the updated Department of Transport guidelines.

The Traffic Section visited the site on Monday, 24th February, to assess sign visibility and street lighting.

• Pedestrian signs were clearly visible in both directions.
• Street lighting was unobstructed, ensuring proper illumination of the crossing at night.
• Vehicles were observed slowing down as they approached the ramp, and pedestrians were using the crossing safely.