THE DUBLIN Transportation Office (DTO) 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 input from the public on measures to 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.
The DTO’s chief executive, John Henry, said it was important that people expressed their views.
“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 in an attempt to stem losses. A review of its services 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, for the cuts.
The plans were widely criticised, despite Minister for Transport Noel Dempsey insisting that there are enough buses in the reduced fleet to meet demand.
Contracts for the Luas extension to Citywest were signed on Monday and the new link is 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 222030.
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