DTO begins new public consultation on transport plan

The Dublin Transportation Office has begun the latest phase of public consultation on a long-term transport strategy for the Greater Dublin Area.

The strategy, entitled 2030 Vision, is intended to cover the period from 2010 to 2030 and will be published next year. The DTO is seeking imput from the public on measures to would meet the transport needs of the future.

Some 3,500 people participated in an earlier phase of public consultation in May and June last year.

Chief executive of the DTO John Henry said it was important that people express their views to his office.

"Ireland is now experiencing tough economic times, and planning for an efficient, sustainable transport system to meet people's needs is a vital step in building a more buoyant future," he said.

"Enabling people to travel quickly and economically to work, to study, to shop or socialise is fundamental to a healthy economy."

Last month Dublin Bus announced it was to cut 290 jobs and 120 buses - a 10 per cent reduction - from its fleet in an atempt to stem losses at the firm. A review of the transport firm's services in the city identified trends such as a sharp decline in passenger numbers as employment contracted, growth in newly developing areas of the city and a reduction in consumer spending, leading to the cutbacks.

The plans have been widely criticised, despite Minister for Transport Noel Dempsey insisting that there are enough buses in the reduced fleet to meet demand.

Yesterday, contracts for the Luas line extension to Citywest were signed. Passenger services on the new link are expected to begin in 2011.

Consultation ends on March 22nd and people can express their views online at www.2030vision.ie, or by requesting a consultation leaflet from 1890 22 2030.