DublinTown Statement on Dublin City Transport Plan – May 2024

Following the launch of the Dublin City Traffic Plan in September 2023, Dublin Town has consistently stated that plans to restrict motor vehicles in several areas of the city centre cannot go ahead before in-depth consultation with local businesses.

Businesses have genuine concerns with the plans – in particular, access for services such as plumbing, equipment repairs, deliveries, waste collection and potential anti-social behaviour in areas with little or no vehicular traffic.

Dublin City Council and National Transport Authority will meet with DublinTown members to workshop the proposals at a meeting on Thursday 23rd May.

In addition to the above, there is a need to address the widespread view that the city will become less accessible, with a consequent loss of custom for city traders.

DublinTown has consistently noted that the proposals could have a devastating impact on Dublin City centre if implemented without detailed consideration of these practical concerns.

Market research commissioned by DublinTown on the plan shows there is the potential to lose a proportion of city shoppers who will instead use suburban retail parks and out of town shopping centres, and will most likely drive there. This would actually increase emissions – contrary to the plan’s objectives.

DublinTown understands the reasoning behind the Dublin City Traffic Plan and the policy context in which it is set. However, there is much more detailed planning work to be undertaken if the city’s business community are to be reassured that the plans can be introduced successfully.