Merrion Square is just off-limits for any new segregated cycling projects in the short-term it seems — after the news last week that the TCD to Ballsbridge project was cut into two phases to exclude Merrion Square North, now a project planned for Merrion Square West has been delayed.
A quick-build cycle path had been planned for Merrion Street Upper, Merrion Square West and Merrion Street Lower as part of the City Quay to Harcourt Street project. But now this is delayed for an unspecified time due to the need to “ensure it aligns with the bus network and other projects in the area”.
It is one of what seems to be a growing number of Dublin City Council projects which are supposed to be quick-build “interm” projects but suffer from slow delivery or hit the rocks after public consultation was held.
Consultation was held a year ago, in October 2022, but now the fate of the project is unclear.
An update to councillors said: “The design team for the City Quay to Harcourt Street route along Merrion Street Upper, Merrion Square West and Merrion Street Lower is undertaking more comprehensive options appraisal and engagement to ensure it aligns with the bus network and other projects in the area.”
omfg, why do we bother.
Grand Canal cycle path > Mount Street Upper> Merrion Square is a very wide road but still no cycle lanes and absolutely terrible road surface along Mount Street Upper- full of potholes.
And of course Baggot Street, which has plenty of width for it (at the Upper end) still has no cycle lanes.
And Leeson Street is still a pretty dire paint only (faded) cycle path- usually full of parked cars, potholes and glass.
They should be doing a lot better with routes joining the Canal Cycle path into the city.