COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL
MEETING OF TALLAGHT AREA COMMITTEE
Monday, June 22, 2026
QUESTION NO. 8
QUESTION: Councillor A. Smyth
"To ask the Council for an update on what is being proposed (if anything) for the junction on the N81 at Tallaght Village/Old Bawn road?"
REPLY:
N81 Tallaght Village / Old Bawn Road Junction
The N81 at Tallaght Village intersects with Old Bawn Road at a key junction carrying approximately 30,000 vehicles per day, alongside significant pedestrian and cyclist activity. The route is a strategic corridor serving Tallaght and the wider Dublin area, with Old Bawn Road, Greenhills Road, and Belgard Road providing important local connections. It is part of the National road network under the control of TII.
Two key issues are being considered in the development of this section of the N81:
- Road Safety: The current 80 km/h speed limit is not considered appropriate for an urban setting with multiple busy junctions and has been associated with a poor safety record based on RSA collision data.
- Sustainable Travel: Existing cycle facilities are of earlier design, and the current road layout acts as a barrier to meaningful development of walking and cycling in Tallaght. Due to junction complexity, there are multiple locations where pedestrians must cross vehicular traffic lanes, several of these crossings do not have controlled crossing facilities. Improvements are planned on adjoining roads, particularly on Old Bawn Road and Belgard Road, and there is Urban Greenway link from the Dodder Greenway to the junction from Avonbeg.
A feasibility and options study is underway to identify potential improvements to the N81 and the Old Bawn Road junction. This will aim to balance traffic function, safety, and sustainable transport needs, with stakeholder and public consultation to follow.