Green Party MEP for Dublin Ciarán Cuffe today welcomed plans put forward by Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council that would see the centre of Dún Laoghaire town transformed into a haven for walking, wheeling and cycling.

“The Living Streets proposal will be transformational for Dún Laoghaire. The plan will improve air quality and road safety, reduce noise pollution and will, I believe, be a huge boost for business in the town.

“Living Streets is one of 35 Department of Transport Pathfinder projects, an innovative initiative from my colleague and Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan. These Pathfinder projects will lead the way in making the switch to sustainable transport and reducing our emissions.  It is very exciting to see these projects taking shape and demonstrating a sustainable, future proofed model for towns across Dublin and the wider country to follow.

“Having had the honour of representing Dún Laoghaire in the Dáil for almost a decade I know how important the town centre is to local people. But the truth is that it hasn’t functioned as a true town centre for many years due to the huge volume of daily through-traffic, making it a place to pass through, rather than a destination to enjoy.

The Living Streets project offers a once in a generation opportunity to return Dún Laoghaire town centre to its former glory as the vibrant heart of the county. I look forward to seeing this project implemented in the coming months.”

In his submission to the Council MEP Cuffe emphasises the positive impact the Living Streets proposal would have in terms of improving air quality, reducing noise pollution and contributing to greater road safety. He welcomes the focus in the proposals on wider footpaths, planting and seating. He proposes that the Council would prioritise the planting of native trees in the roll out of the plan. 

Click here to read Ciarán Cuffe’s submission on the Living Streets proposal.