Tallaght cyclists now on track with wheeling out of new route

By Laura Lyne

THE OFFICIAL opening of the Tallaght section of the Tallaght to M50 cycle track, which is due to be completed next month, took place yesterday (Wednesday) as part of Bike Week.

The 3km project, which began in March 2015 and has been met with a number of delays and concerns by local residents, motorists and businesses, still has work ongoing, despite being opened this week.

It was funded by the National Transport Authority (NTA) at a cost of €2 million, with South Dublin County Council previously telling The Echo that the budget includes “contractual commitments and scope changes”, with additional funding provided for the new surfacing along the Tallaght road.

The project saw the construction of 3.6km of new footpaths, 1.9km of raised cycle track and 1.2km of on-road cycle lanes.

It also saw 70 new public LED lighting units, new traffic signals at Castletymon Road junction with Old Main Road, new signalised pedestrian and cyclist crossings at Newtown Park and and Glenview Part west and east and improvements to existing bus stops on the route.

Mayor Sarah Holland was joined by her fellow councillors, staff from South Dublin County Council, the NTA, Clifton Emerson Associates Consulting Engineers, SIAC Construction at the official opening.

Pupils from fifth class in St Dominic’s National School were also in attendance, having cycled and walked to the opening alongside their principal.

Speaking at the opening, Mayor Holland said: “It is appropriate that this route was officially opened during Bike Week 2016.

“Bike week gives us the chance to actively promote our cycling infrastructure and to encourage and acknowledge participation in cycling activities.

“Thanks to the efforts of staff from a number of departments throughout the Council there are a number of activities and events on offer throughout the week all across the County.”