Written answers

Thursday, 8 June 2006

5:00 pm

Photo of Ivor CallelyIvor Callely (Dublin North Central, Fianna Fail)
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Question 148: To ask the Minister for Transport the proposed date for the opening of the Dublin Port Tunnel; the estimated number of heavy goods vehicles that will use the Dublin Port Tunnel on a daily basis; the impact on the access and exit road network routes to the Dublin Port Tunnel; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22015/06]

Photo of Martin CullenMartin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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The planning, design and implementation of national road improvement projects, including the Dublin Port Tunnel, is a matter for the National Roads Authority (NRA) and the local authorities concerned, in this case, Dublin City Council.

I understand that the civil engineering work within the tunnels has now been largely completed and that the main focus of work has shifted to the installation of the mechanical and electrical systems which make up the safety and control features of the project.

Dublin City Council and the NRA have advised that the main construction and installation work in the Tunnel is expected to be completed in June, with the Tunnel opening to traffic in September following a number of months of testing, commissioning and training. However, the exact opening date will be contingent on satisfactory completion of the testing and commissioning of the tunnel's operational and safety features, including the training of operational and emergency staff.

It is estimated by the NRA that approximately 21,600 vehicles will use the Port Tunnel on a daily basis. Of these, 6,300 are heavy goods vehicles over 17 tonnes.

Traffic management in general is a matter for the appropriate local authority in the area. In this instance, the traffic management and control arrangements that will apply following the opening of the Tunnel are matters for Dublin City Council and the NRA.

My officials and I are consulting with all stakeholders, including Dublin City Council and the NRA, to ensure that a co-ordinated strategy is developed for the opening of the Tunnel. Dublin City Council's Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) Management Strategy is an important part of this process in that its purpose is to ensure that maximum traffic benefits are secured from the Dublin Port Tunnel.

My Department's formal role will be to put in place the necessary regulations regarding road signage and related matters to support the strategy. This work is underway.

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