Attempts to delay the Dublin City Transport Plan by fearmongering must be rejected, according to Social Democrats councillor Eoin Hayes.
Cllr Hayes, who represents Kimmage-Rathmines, said:
“The economic assessment prepared for the Dublin City Centre Traders’ Alliance (DCCTA) does not take into account the significant costs to the capital caused by traffic congestion and underestimates the footfall increases from a thriving city core devoid of gridlock.
“It is curious as to why this report has been produced so late in the day, long after public consultation on the transport plan ended.
“Its conclusions are not consistent with the experience of other European capital cities, where reduced traffic has led to an uptick in economic activity and retail revenues.
“Congested streets actually discourage people from coming into the city and cause considerable damage from an environmental and public health perspective. Our tourists – on whom most retailers in Dublin rely – want to come to a destination with a European quality of life, with activities for people and beautiful open spaces – not a city dominated by cars and car parks.
“This transport plan is attempting to move through traffic out of the city centre, making it more accessible for anyone travelling into town by bus, Luas or private vehicle.
“As the real threat to retail is coming from online shopping, we need to give people more reasons to do business in the city. Easing traffic congestion, providing better public transport and increasing pedestrianisation will help boost footfall in Dublin and improve air quality, as well as a boon to our international reputation as a tourist destination.
“The transport plan for Dublin, which has already been watered down to address traders’ concerns, must now be introduced in August, as scheduled.
“It is also notable that some of the businesses objecting to the plan are the owners of city centre car parks, who have an obvious vested interest in maintaining the status quo of car-choked streets.”
July 12, 2024