A proposed new bus route through Mervue has been described as ‘bonkers’ by Independent City Councillor Terry O’Flaherty.
“I have received a number of complaints from people living in Old Mervue who are concerned for their safety if buses are put through these narrow streets,” she said.
The new route forms part of a transformation of the Galway city public transport network by the National Transport Authority, called Galway BusConnects, which is due to be implemented in stages in 2025 and 2026.
Their original plan sparked controversy when it proposed to remove a bus stop in Parnell Avenue, which has served people living in Old Mervue for decades.
The new route running between Parkmore and Eyre Square will see incoming buses travel along Ballybane Road, turning onto St James’ Road as far as Mervue church, then going right, up Connolly Avenue, before turning into Old Mervue, for the section of the route that has generated controversy.
Here, buses will travel up Barry Avenue, turning left onto Tone Avenue before making their way to the current bus stop, where there is a shelter located, on Parnell Avenue. The route then continues out of Mervue via Clarke Avenue, before making its way onto the Monivea Road, over to the Tuam Road and on to Eyre Square.
Outgoing buses will take a similar route, coming off the Monivea Road onto McDonagh Avenue, then exiting Old Mervue via McDermott Avenue and part of Barry Avenue on their way too Parkmore.
“This is just not going to work and we have to have another rethink. I know that the public consultation period for Galway BusConnects has concluded, but I would still recommend that if anyone has concerns they should write to the Active Travel section of Galway City Council or email [email protected],” Cllr O’Flaherty added.
