Roderic O'Gorman (Dublin West, Green Party)
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56. To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the status of the Phoenix Park Transport and Mobility Options Study and his plans for its implementation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21671/25]

Kevin Moran (Longford-Westmeath, Independent)
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The Phoenix Park Transport and Mobility Options Study, published in 2021, was based on the overarching principles of the Park being for people to enjoy its amenities and attractions, that the biodiversity and landscape fabric of the Park must be protected, that sustainable access will be encouraged and to base decisions on evidence while liaising with a wide range of interested parties.

My officials have progressed much of the actions outlined in the Phoenix Park Transport and Mobility Options Study, Post Consultation Report, since its adoption.

A Steering Group has been established which is comprised of the CEO's of Fingal County Council, Dublin City Council (DCC), the National Transport Authority and the Chairman of the Office of Public Works (OPW). The steering group is working to ensure a coherent framework for the implementation of appropriate transport and mobility solutions in the Park that connect with wider policy objectives, strategic initiatives and overall management of this part of the City.

As recommended in the report, a 30 kilometre per hour speed limit was introduced. There are signs and road markings advising motorists of the speed limit on entry to the park and at key locations throughout.

In October 2023, the 99 Dublin Bus route commenced which links Heuston Station with the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre. There are a number of stops along the route at key destinations such as Dublin Zoo and Áras an Uachtaráin. A one-way system on the North Road between Cabra Gate and Garda Headquarters, allowing a contraflow cycle lane, was made permanent after a successful 9-month pilot programme. The cul-de-sac of the Upper Glen Road has also been permanently implemented.

To improve active travel, over 10 kilometres of footpaths and cycle lanes in the Phoenix Park have been upgraded since the publishing of the Transport and Mobility Options Study allowing for greater mobility and access across the park. In 2024, the OPW introduced age-friendly car parking spaces and has plans for an increase in the number of age-friendly and accessible parking spaces in 2025.

My officials are working with Dublin City Council and the National Transport Authority on a permanent scheme of segregated cycle-lands on Chesterfield Avenue. The new layout will is sensitive to the heritage of the Park and incorporates pedestrian crossings, segregated cycle lanes and pedestrian and cyclist priority at junctions and roundabouts. It is envisaged that these plans will progress to planning in Q3 2025.

The report also recommended the development of a Parking Strategy for the Park. The was commissioned by the OPW and a public consultation process was completed. It is anticipated that the report will be published in the near future.