Figure 5.11 refers to Junction improvements. From quick scan of the LTP there appears to be some issues for concern.
The LTP also states a need for some form of traffic management in the Village Centre to reduce traffic speeds and/or volumes in order to accommodate cyclists within mixed traffic.
Has there been any studies carried out to investigate what the implications may be for the surrounding road network if village traffic is reduced?
The Do Minimum strategy referred to, proposes localised improvements at certain junctions, maintaining the present vehicular circulation and including a number of measures to reduce the attractiveness of the Village Centre for through-traffic, such as traffic calming, reduction of junction corner radii, pedestrian and cyclist crossings, and cyclist signal improvements, where possible.
What studies have been carried out to assess the implications of these designs?
For instance, under Junction 1, the LTP states that the upgrade of the Ninth Lock Road/New Nangor Road junction will consist of removing left turn slip lanes.
Assuming the volume of traffic remains constant, this is likely to increase in journey times and increase in traffic congestion.
Furthermore, the Ninth Lough Road (north of the above mentioned junction) is already a heavily congested route, this plan doesn’t appear to take into account implications on surrounding road networks.
Consideration should also be given to how these cycle, pedestrian improvements and traffic management/calming interventions impact on the current volumes of traffic, safety and journey times, the Bawnogue road serves as an example for inefficient (and possibly unsafe) design.
CSO figures are based on 2022, there has been a significant increase in population in Clondalkin and surrounding areas since CSO figures were used.
Has there been any studies been carried out to assess the impact of increase in traffic volume and population since the CSO results were used for this study?
Fonthill train station is labelled as underutilised, there are a number of factors here which should be explored such as:
- Some of trains are often already at capacity by the time they reach the Fonthill station,
- Lack of suitable services in both destination and frequency,
- Lack of awareness of the services,
- The access to the station via public transport, and more.