DUBLIN IS TO become a “pedestrian-friendly” capital – with cars only a secondary priority as developments are planned, according to a draft proposal for the city’s future.
Planners foresee that the “predominant movement pattern in the city centre will be on foot”, the document states, while cars passing through the city centre en route to other destinations will be “pro-actively discouraged”.
Dublin City Council is inviting submissions to its Your City, Your Space plan, which was published in draft form last year.
It states that increasing congestion in the city centre makes it essential to prioritise pedestrians and public transport over cars, and calls for the creation of a “pedestrian-friendly city with a world class public domain.” The report states:
On foot, by bicycle or by public transport will be the main modes of access and through-traffic will be pro-actively discouraged. While economic needs require private car and service vehicle access for business and shopping trips, the predominant movement pattern in the city centre will be on foot.
The draft report also urges efforts to preserve the historic and local character of specific neighbourhoods, such as the Georgian squares.
It sets out a plan for development which divides the city into zones, including the “Liffey Corridor and Civic Spine” – the quays, O’Connell Street, Westmoreland Street and Dame Street – and the “primary” shopping areas of Grafton Street and Henry Street.
There is also a call for increased focus on public spaces, including Barnardo Square between Dublin Castle and the City Hall; Beresford Place behind the Customs House; and the Fish Market space in Smithfield.
City manager John Tierney told the Irish Times that the report is not designed to produce major upheavals or large redevelopments in years to come, but provide a better framework for carrying out everyday public works.
Submissions are open until January 25.
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