A new traffic system is planned for Kilkenny which will change forever the way people travel around the city.
Plans are in the pipeline for a one-way system around John Street, Rose Inn Street and High Street in the city and also Michael Street on the outskirts — while a smaller one-way system is proposed for Upper Patrick Street and Jacob Street.
These new systems are to be implemented on the completion of the Parade project which is due to be finished in September.
The introduction of 50km of cycle lanes is also proposed while improvements to footpaths on John Street, Rose Inn Street, High Street and Kieran Street are also in the pipeline.
The plan will also offer an option of the complete pedestrianisation of High Street during busy shopping periods and on festival occasions, from the junction of Friary Street as far as the junction with James Street.
A shuttle bus service is also being planned for the inner city and two bus routes servicing the city environs on an east-west and north-south alignment will be considered subject to considerable financial subvention.
Park and ride facilities would not be currently viable according to the council executive.
The plan was brought before the members this week and was discussed at length.
County manager Joe Crockett said that the council had made financial provision for the plan over a five year period.
“This is one of the most fundamental changes for Kilkenny in a long time and the measures reflect what the members have asked for. It is a major upgrade in a bid to restore the city’s standing. The focus is to upgrade the city in line with a European city of medieval status.”
Mayor Pat Crotty called on the public to make submissions on the plan when it goes on public display.
Green Party councillor Malcolm Noonan said that many aspects of a new mobility plan for Kilkenny City and Environs have the potential to make the city one of the most progressive regional towns in the country in dealing with urban mobility and transport.
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