Public asked for ideas on Dún Laoghaire to Dundrum walking and cycling route
Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council (DLRCC) is inviting feedback from the public for the DLR Connector – a walking and cycling route which will connect neighbourhoods between Dún Laoghaire and Dundrum.
The plan will see an 8.5km cycle lane connecting the east and west of the council area with upgraded junctions, footpaths and bus stops.
Senior Engineer for Active Travel in DLRCC, Conor Geraghty, said the new plan can help make the route safe for children and other commuters.
“Parts of the route are unsafe for all road users and experience heavy traffic during peak times,” he said in a report for councillors.
“Current crossroads and roundabouts on the route are designed in a way that makes it hard for pedestrians and cyclists to navigate them safely.
“The existing walking and cycling paths along the route stop and start, which discourages use for people, especially by children, older adults and more vulnerable road users.”
DLRCC is now calling for suggestions from people in the area to help create the final design.
“The DLR Connector will connect neighbourhoods and villages east to west across the county via a safe and accessible walking and cycling route with other improvements to the infrastructure,” it said.
“The new route will bridge the gap between existing and planned active travel routes. It will see the delivery of 8.5km of continuous cycling and walking facilities from Dún Laoghaire to Dundrum.
“It will also improve access to local schools, shops and amenities by active travel modes.”
The report added that the project had seen public support since it was introduced.
“Broad support emerged for the project, especially to boost safety and promote walking and cycling, notably among youth,” the report said.
“Young people and businesses welcomed safer routes and increased footfall. It will also help with traffic congestion, parking loss and pinch points such as Monkstown Avenue.”
The new route also seeks to support residents and people with disabilities who had called for stronger safety measures.
The consultation remains open until July 15, and any feedback from the public will be used for its final designs that will be submitted to An Bord Pleanála in a formal planning application.
DLRCC said it plans to apply for planning permission to An Bord Pleanála by the end of the year.