New plan for Phoenix Park

New traffic management measures proposed for Dublin's Phoenix Park would include restrictions on commuter car traffic, as well as a bus service inside the park for the first time..

Other measures would involve the closure of side roads to through traffic, a 30km/h speed limit and improved walking and cycling facilities in the 700 hectare green space, which is a majir visitor attraction..

The Phoenix Park Transport and Mobility Options study was requested following controversy over the reopening of side gates to car traffic last summer after Covid-19 restrictions were eased.

The Office of Public Works had announced that the side gates would remain closed to cars to protect the park's status as the city's "green lung".

This was overruled by Minister of State Patrick O'Donovan, who said access was for needed for workers and to stop traffic being diverted into surrounding areas.

A preferred option for dealing with conflicting demands in the park is now understood to have been agreed.

It is understood that under the new proposals, Chesterfield Avenue will remain open for commuter traffic, but alongside a 30km/h limit and pedestrian crossing points.

The side roads would be closed to through traffic by a mixture of cul-de-sacs and road closures, but still allow access for the 2,000 people who work in the park in institutions, such as Garda Headquarters, St Mary's Hospital and Ordnance Survey of Ireland.