Chris Andrews (Dublin Bay South, Sinn Fein)
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223. To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the reason the consultation project completed in 2019 by the OPW was not referred to when it was decided to reopen the gates of the Phoenix Park; the reason there is another consultation project taking place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16695/20]

Patrick O'Donovan (Limerick County, Fine Gael)
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In 2018, the Office of Public Works commissioned a strategic review and draft plan for the future enhancement of the visitor experience at the Phoenix Park. The draft review document was on display at the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre for ten weeks in 2019 and members of the public and stakeholders were invited to submit their observations on the document to OPW.

This draft document did not constitute a planning document nor was the consultation a statutory consultation process. While the document explored options for sustainable transport and long-term transport development ideas, it should be noted that it did not include specific actions or solutions to current traffic management, transport or mobility challenges in the Phoenix Park. Rather it included a key recommendation that OPW should commission a Transport and Mobility Study for the Park. In December 2019, OPW committed to undertake such a study. Work was due to commence on this study in April 2020. However, due to the COVID-19 restrictions, the OPW was unable to proceed as planned.

The decision to reopen the Phoenix Park peripheral gates on Friday 10th July was based on an increase in the volume of traffic in the neighbouring areas surrounding the Park to which the gate closures have in part contributed. A further increase in traffic volume in the coming weeks and months with the return of workers to the City and the reopening of schools might also be anticipated.

The OPW is committed to engaging in a consultation process around a new Transport and Mobility strategy for the Park. This consultation will involve all stakeholders to ensure we develop a balanced approach to access to the Park, for all users. This process is now expected to take place during August/September of this year and will ultimately inform the appropriate sustainable solutions to traffic management in the Phoenix Park in the short, medium and long term.