The decision by the National Transport Authority (NTA ) to change the bus route in Mervue, Galway city without consulting the residents or considering local knowledge has caused unnecessary fear and concern amongst the community, local residents have claimed.
The proposed changes are expected to have a significant impact on residents and in particular elderly locals and individuals with disabilities due to the narrow residential avenues through which the buses will now pass. This suggested alteration is likely to disrupt the daily lives of residents and pose challenges and great risk for those who rely on accessible transportation options.
One resident told the Advertiser that the narrow residential avenues in Mervue are not designed to accommodate large buses.
“The introduction of buses into these areas raises health and safety concerns for children, pedestrians and drivers,” she said.
“Prioritising accessibility for elderly residents and individuals with disabilities when planning public transportation routes is essential to ensure inclusivity and equal access to services. This has clearly not been done by the NTA.”
Others residents have stated that the introduction of buses into narrow residential avenues will lead to increased traffic congestion and will potentially impact emergency response times in the area.
Another resident who has lived in the area for the past 35 years and is now 73 said that removing this bus route will impact the only independence that she has left.
“I use it on a weekly basis to do my few little bits of shopping and if they remove it, I will lose this, it is very upsetting.”
Locals have asked the NTA to engage in meaningful consultations with the residents of Mervue.
“We also ask City Council members to understand our concerns and explore alternative solutions that address both transportation needs and community requirements.
“We invite you to come and walk the route with us to see how this is going to impact the residents of Mervue. The route has been in place for 60 years. It’s not broken so don’t try and fix it,” they added.
The residents say that the NTA’s decision to change the bus route in Mervue without consulting local residents has raised valid concerns about safety for children and residents, accessibility, community disruption, and traffic congestion.
The Mervue residents have written to their local and national representatives as well as the NTA. They are requesting a collaborative approach that prioritises residents’ input, considers alternative routes, and ensures accessibility for all members of the community.
