Cyclists to demonstrate for approval of proposed Dublin bike path

Campaigners say the Liffey Cycle Route, which was proposed over five years ago, needs to be built in order to keep cyclists safe on Dublin's Quays. They are calling on Dublin City Council to approve the plans.

Former Dublin footballer Conal Keaney, who owns Phoenix Park Bikes cycle shop, has shown his support for the route.

"This envisaged cycle route will make a major statement by Dublin City about a sustainable transport future for the City," he says. "The proposed segregated route will be a great attraction, for commuters, leisure cyclists, and tourists alike, and has the power to transform this area of the City’

Kieran Ryan of the Dublin Cycling Campaign adds that figures from the CSO show many short journeys are made by car, but could easily be made by bicycle if the routes are safe.

"Building routes such as this proposed Liffey Cycle Route will encourage commuters and travellers generally to leave the car behind and switch to a sustainable transport mode, and in turn help to reduce congestion," he says. "It could be a win-win situation."

Hundreds of cyclists will take to their bikes this Sunday to demonstrate support for the route. The cycle begins at 11am at the Wellington Monument in Dublin’s Phoenix Park. The group will then head along the quays to the Samuel Beckett Bridge before proceeding along North Circular Road.

The Cycle will end in Phibsborough. Dublin Cycle Campaign have partnered with Phizzfest, and local residents groups in the area will host an on-street celebration.

The Liffey Cycle Route is proposed as a segregated two-way cycle track running all the way from the Phoenix Park to the Point Village/O3 Arena along Dublin’s North Quays. Dublin City Council’s Transport SPC Committee is expected to make a decision on the route in September.

For more information about the Liffey Cycle this weekend, and about the Liffey Cycle Route in general, visit Dublin Cycling Campaign’s website.