The plan to build a segregated cycle lane along the River Liffey from Heuston Station to Dublin’s Docklands has been shelved.
It was announced yesterday that the allocated €20 million in funding to build the Liffey Cycleway has been withdrawn by the State. The plan was the eighth attempt over the course of five years to find an acceptable route for the cycle lane.
Deeming the decision as inappropriate, the Green Party were quick to voice its disappointment:
“More people travel down the quays by bike than by car during rush hour. We need to provide them with a segregated and safe space to travel. Cyclist deaths are up this year – we need more investment, as soon as possible.
“We’re five years into this process – it is unacceptable to go back to square one. Minister Shane Ross must fund this project, and instruct the NTA to increase rather than cut off funding.”
The latest plan (Option 8) proposed the construction of a boardwalk for cyclists in Arran and Ellis Quays, a solution thought up after Option 7 was aborted due to concerns about diverting cars from these sections of the Quays through Stoneybatter.
In addition to concerns over the route, some councillors expressed concern at the additional €3 million of costs that Option 8 would incur.
At this point, it is unclear what the next steps will be. Perhaps the NTA’s consultants will opt to choose one of the previously rejected plans, or maybe we will see an Option 9. We certainly hope the notion won’t be scrapped altogether.
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