Sir, - The introduction of Operation "Freeflow" in Dublin seems to be successful in reducing the level of traffic disruption in Dublin. The operation was introduced as an emergency measure; if there is to be any permanent improvement, it must be continued. This must rule out any planned major on street disruption for the future.
As just such a disruption is central to the introduction of the Luas light rail system, under present plans, it seems that Luas and Operation "Freeflow" are mutually exclusive. Central to both is the fact that traffic levels now greatly exceed those on which present traffic management plans are based.
Given that at least some of the fundamental assumptions of the Dublin Transport Initiative are now shown to be flawed, we must expect our planners not to adopt the approach of the dinosaur, either in persisting with the present, out dated Luas plan, or in an irrational attack on motorists without providing efficient alternatives. Most questioning of Luas centres around the underground/ surface debate.
While there are merits in both arguments, the level of disruption in adopting either in the centre city area would be substantial. Debate about the scope of Luas in reaching different areas of Dublin, such as Ballymun, Cabinteely, Sandyford, and in providing a rail link to Dublin Airport has been constrained due to the lack of funding available for the first phase of Luas.
The traffic data now available should be extrapolated to give an up dated projection for the 2000-2005 period. Operation "Freeflow" should be continued and extended, making it financially punitive to park illegally, and expensive to park for long periods. The cost of all day car parking should be linked to improvements in public transport. Any planned disruption of the centre city, Within the two canals, should be banned. Luas plans' should be re examined, aiming to serve the areas planned and proposed in phases 1 and 2 from points outside the Grand and Royal Canals, to and via points where "Park and Ride" facilities have been provided.
Finally, public transport within the central area should be augmented by a number of new routes, using the most suitable type of buses, operated as an extension of the Dart, Luas and Arrow services. These bus services should be provided free of charge, and funded directly from car parking revenue and penalties. Only then can the provision of a light rail service within the centre city be assessed, and then as an ordered development of what should be a much improved system. - Yours, etc.,
Cabinteely Crescent,
Dublin 18.