Seán Canney (Galway East, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy. As she may be aware, the NTA published the final new bus network design for Galway in December 2023. The redesign of the bus network is one of the key elements of BusConnects Galway, which aims to transform the city’s bus system, making public transport more useful to more people.

This new Galway network redesign involves extensive analysis and public consultation. The NTA carried out a detailed review of the bus network in collaboration with Galway City Council, Galway County Council and local bus operators, and with the specialised expertise of transport designers. In April 2023, a draft new network was published, and the feedback and submissions received have informed the final new bus network published that December. The new bus network will result in increased access to more schools and workplaces across Galway city, Barna and Oranmore. Once implemented, approximately 67% of residents will live within 400 m of a high-frequency bus route, that is, buses running every 15 minutes or better. The NTA is currently working closely with Galway city and county councils to progress key infrastructure required for the roll-out of the redesigned services. The redesigned services are expected to commence in 2027, subject to operational readiness and funding.

Other elements of BusConnects Galway are under development, including the cross-city link project, which was approved by An Bord Pleanála in September 2024 and is currently subject to judicial review, and the Dublin Road scheme, which the NTA is due to submit to An Bord Pleanála shortly. The Salmon Weir pedestrian and cycling bridge was officially opened to the public in May 2023, helping to improve existing bus services.

Overall, BusConnects will transform bus services in our cities, allowing passengers to travel more conveniently, quickly and sustainably. I look forward to the full implementation of BusConnects in Galway, no more than the Deputy.

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