As you will be aware, over the last number of weeks, there has been some discussions in the media about the possible introduction of a 30 kilometre speed limit in parts of the City Centre. The reasoning behind such an introduction is to promote pedestrianisation and cycling in the city centre.
While no decision has been taken yet a City Council level, I believe it is important that the views of all stakeholders are taken into account, before a decision is made. The 30kilometre introduction in Dublin City Centre recently has been seen as an unmitigated disaster, as it only served to frustrate motorists.
In considering any such proposal, it would be important to have expert reports available which would address the issue and specify clearly the reasoning for a particular proposal. Following appropriate consultation, City Councillors could then make an informed decision.
Currently a proposal is being put together by City Council’s traffic department and they are consulting with the gardaí. It will then be put forward to us, the elected members for consideration.
Ultimately it will be a decision for the elected members in City Hall to make, following due consultation. So I’d like to get your views on the possibility. Feel free to email with you ideas and thoughts: lauramcgonigle@gmail.com
30 kph in some parts of the city would be very welcome. I see frequently see people driving down South Mall and Washington street as if they were on an open country road. Speeds on some of the suburban roads are also excessive and at some times of the day are well in excess of 50KPH. I’m thinking my road (blackrock Road) would be a lot safer if there were ramps or some other traffic control measures installed.
By: Michael Logan on February 16, 2010
at 3:46 pm
I am a keen cyclist, a parent to young children, and also a motorist. So to some extent I can see all sides of the argument. I agree with Michael’s comment that such a limit would be more appropriate in some streets than others. Broadly speaking, I would have no issue with a 30 limit on all streets and quays within the shaded area in this map: http://bit.ly/dmc30zone
By: David McCormack on February 16, 2010
at 5:30 pm
I would be happy to see a 30 kph speed limit in the city center as I too would like to be able to walk/cycle around in safety. I would also like to see more pedestrianised street like Oliver Plunkett Street which is now a pleasure to shop on. In my neighbourhood, Beaumont Drive can be a speedway and motorists regularly break the ped lights too.
By: Valerie Cahill on February 17, 2010
at 3:33 pm
While agreeing with most of the above some things come to mind. During the busy rush hour no one exceeds 10/20Kms so that leaves the other times. Do we have enough Gardaí to police this? Do we want them spending time on this or making the city safer for people to be in? If and when it was to come in will we be innundated with complaints and bad press for the city at a time we need to be promoting it! We need more car free streets in town to be sure but making it safer is up to all of us road users. Most accidents happen by people taking chances, running lights, crossing roads between cars etc. Let’s all slow down!
By: JK on February 17, 2010
at 10:20 pm