Approval for Galway Ring Road welcome but more public transport investment needed
Approval for Galway Ring Road welcome but more public transport investment needed - The Labour Party
- Households affected by route must be properly engaged with
- Plan for a Galway LUAS must be included in transport strategy
Labour Councillor and candidate for the Galway West bye-election Helen Ogbu has welcomed the planning approval for the Galway ring road, but said a comprehensive transport strategy and investment plan for public transport in Galway is needed now, and those families affected by the route must be properly engaged with.
Cllr Ogbu said:
“The decision by An Coimisiún Pleanála to approve the Galway City ring road is welcome and will hopefully draw a line under decades of uncertainty and delay. Our city, and the wider county clearly needs improved transport infrastructure for the future growth and prosperity of Galway.
“A key concern for me is the years of uncertainty that dozens of families affected by compulsory purchase orders along the route have faced.
“There must be comprehensive engagement now with the more than 50 affected households, and lasting resolution of their concerns. I would urge the Minister of State for Transport, Seán Canney to give a public guarantee to ensure these residents are properly engaged with, and given some certainty now after years of limbo.
“This ring road is still many years away, and Galway is struggling now, so we need a transport strategy that pulls every lever to address the congestion that is crippling our city and county.
“Crucially, there must also be a commitment from government to the delivery of a Galway LUAS alongside the plans for the ring road. Light rail is the long term solution to transport issues in Galway and is a central issue in the bye-election.
“Galway needs increased investment not just in roads, but in public transport. The Galway Metropolitan Area Transport Strategy must comprehensively address this need for light rail and deliver on Bus Connects. Doing so will also help address concerns about the climate impact of the new bypass and ensure our county can grow sustainably and in partnership with our natural environment, rather than in conflict.”