Malcolm Noonan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

Like the Senator, I was in the Phoenix Park for the visit of the Pope in 1979 and still have fond memories of it. The Senator has outlined the challenges facing this hugely popular resource for the people of Dublin. It is one of the largest public parks in Europe, as far as I am aware. It is important that the park should be a living, breathing space for everyone, and for all other species, including exotic species, that occupy the park. It is critical that we get this right.

I am responding on behalf of my colleague, the Minister of State, Deputy O'Donovan, who is deeply committed to ensuring that the sustainable use of the park continues into the future. The post-consultation report for the Phoenix Park transport and mobility study was launched last summer. The consultation process saw over 2,200 people engage with the OPW on their vision for the Phoenix Park. The Phoenix Park transport and mobility options study recognised the diverse and complex functions that the park serves, including its historic landscape, biodiversity habitats, visitor attractions and recreational spaces, along with its significant institutions and places of work.

The study proposed that the recommendations would be undertaken in three phases over the next seven years. Within the study, five common themes emerged in the areas of walking and cycling; access, gates and roads; public transport; movement within the park; and public consultation. The study proposed that the recommendations will be undertaken in three phases over the next seven years. I am proud that works are well advanced for the projects identified in phase 1.

A pilot study has been implemented for nine months for culs-de-sac on the North Road and Upper Glen Road. This commenced on Monday, 28 February 2022. The North Road has new road markings and signage, and is operating a one-way system in the city direction only. The OPW has erected signage at both entrances to the Upper Glen Road notifying motorists of this. Bollards delineating the cul-de-sac have been installed to allow cyclists, wheelchairs and people with buggies access. In addition, there are two cycle lanes clearly marked on the North Road.

The design and plans for the 8 km permanent one-directional cycle lanes along both sides of Chesterfield Avenue, linking Castleknock to the city, are currently being advanced with the National Transport Authority and Dublin City Council. Baseline topographical surveys are currently being undertaken. The OPW has installed traffic lane separators along the entire length of Chesterfield Avenue, on both sides of the road, providing a safer environment for cyclists. More than 8 km of temporary cones have been removed and these new durable and strong lane separators will ensure a safer experience for both cyclists and vehicles using Chesterfield Avenue. In addition, more than 40 new bike stands have been installed throughout the park, with another 70 planned for 2022.

A 30 km/h speed limit was implemented in the park on 28 February. The reduction of the speed limit for all traffic will preserve the park as an access route to Dublin, while safely accommodating access for all. I take on board the points opposing it but it is critical that the 30 km/h limit be retained. It was introduced in the interests of public safety and there has been a significant reduction of speeds within the park with a noticeable change in driver behaviour, which is what this is all about. Drivers may not slow to a speed of 30 km/h but they are keeping their speed lower, which is critical. It makes the park a safer place for all visitors. While there may be some frustration regarding this reduction in speed, studies have shown that lower speeds reduce the risk of fatalities dramatically. It should be noted that when motorists exit the park towards the city, the same 30 km/h speed limit applies. This speed limit has been adopted in many other urban areas across Europe, including in cities in Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands and Sweden, not only for safety reasons, but to reduce noise, air pollution and CO2 emissions.

Parking remains a concern in the park. There are approximately 2,000 dedicated parking spaces available for the public to use. These include five car parks linked to Chesterfield Avenue and all of these car parks are served by surfaced footpaths traversing the park. As part of the pilot one-way scheme on the North Road, the OPW has created further car parking spaces to facilitate visitors to the park and visitors to Dublin Zoo. The OPW is undertaking a parking strategy for the park. A commencement meeting is due to take place later this week with the appointed consultants. This six-month study will include a baseline review, identify options, undertake public consultation and make a series of recommendations.