BY DECLAN VARLEY
The planning application for the Galway Cross-City Link has been submitted by the National Transport Authority (NTA ). This scheme will provide for a new bus priority corridor through Galway City Centre, connecting the west and the east of the city from University Road to the Dublin Road. It sets the foundation for the delivery of the overall Galway BusConnects programme and it is a key aspect of the Galway Transport Strategy 2016-2036.
This scheme will provide a fast and reliable bus route across Galway city centre. The Cross-City Link will improve the quality of public transport in the city, so that more homes, schools and businesses are within 10 minutes’ walk of a high-frequency bus service. This corridor will also provide high-quality footpaths, pedestrian crossings and segregated cycling facilities.
In addition to providing bus priority through the central city area, the Cross-City Link will see new traffic management schemes implemented in the city, including dedicated bus priority along portions of the route and amendments to traffic circulation.
Galway TD and Minister of State at the Department of Transport Hildegarde Naughton said that while she remains a firm supporter of the Galway Ring Road, she has always said that it is not the magic bullet in terms of easing traffic congestion in Galway City.
“I remain clear that we also need a fit for purpose bus service. Today is the start of that process.
“The Galway Cross-City Link provides Galway with a better public and active travel environment. It will create a safe and accessible public space, with clean and quiet streets.
“By connecting the east and west of the city, people will have improved access to essential services and recreational facilities within a ten-minutes’ walk of a frequent bus service,” she said.
A public consultation process was undertaken by Galway City Council during 2020 and the feedback received was used to finalise the proposed scheme that the NTA today submitted to An Bord Pleanála.
On the assumption of planning consent being granted, it is targeted that construction work for the Cross-City Link will commence around late 2023.
