Tuesday 20 May 2008

Transport plans open to public scrutiny

COMMUTERS will have a say in the future of Dublin’s transportation system for the first time.

A vision of the capital’s road, rail and tram links will go under public scrutiny as transport chiefs consult future projects with members of the public.

The Dublin Transportation Office will take submissions from commuters, motorists, cyclists and pedestrians through a public consultation website www.2030vision.ie The strategy, to run from up to 2030, will replace Transport 21.


“We are planning for the people so the people should know what we are doing, what we are saying, and we should know what that they are saying,” said John Henry, DTO director.

“We want to hear all views on what the key transport issues are, and to learn what people feel the objectives for Dublin’s transport should be.”

Consultations have already taken place with business and community groups, tourism organisations, and representatives from counties Dublin, Kildare, Meath and Wicklow.

The strategy has been opened for public input before a consultation process begins through advertising, public meetings and websites.

Launching the scheme, Transport Minister Noel Dempsey said there will eventually be fewer cars in the city centre, but stressed it would remain open for business.

He also attempted to ease concerns of disruption during the construction of the Metro North and Interconnector between 2010 and 2015: “Works will be taking place at different places at different times, and whatever disruptions there will be confined to a particular area.”

Mr Henry said private cars may be rerouted from the main thoroughfares.

Meanwhile, the Green Party will launch its submission to the Government’s public consultation on Sustainable Travel and Transport tomorrow.

Irish Examiner

www.buckplanning.ie

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