Cork Cycling Campaign request prioritisation of Primary Routes in the Cork Cycle Network, and tie-in with future BusConnects STC, to create a coherent cycle network.
While the number of kilometres of Cork’s cycling infrastructure has increased in recent years, critical gaps remain. To create a truly cyclist-friendly city, we need a well-connected network. The Cork Cycling Campaign urges Cork City, County Council, and the NTA to prioritize planned primary routes from the 2017 plan and CMATs. These routes would close key gaps and ensure a future-proof network linking workplaces, schools, shops, and transport hubs.
- Ballincollig to City: Carrigrohane Straight
- North Ring Road: Silversprings to Blackpool
- North Main St – South Main St CCMS Phase 8
- Christy Ring Bridge – Kyrl’s Quay
- Washington St to South Mall
- Clashduv – Turners Cross
- Middle Glanmire Road
- Dunkettle to Little Island
- Tramore Valley
- Water-based Transport - Pedestrian/Bike Ferry
About BusConnects
BusConnects is a nationwide initiative aimed at transforming public transport in Ireland, focusing on better bus services, faster routes, and improved connectivity across cities. In Cork, it seeks to create a more efficient, reliable, and sustainable transport system.
Ballincollig, located 8 km west of Cork City, has grown rapidly to a population of over 20,000 and is a key commuting hub. Despite its size and economic activity, cycling infrastructure along this crucial route remains unsafe, making it difficult for residents, students, and workers to travel sustainably.
We propose a direct, high-quality transport link from Ballincollig to Cork City, mirroring the future Glanmire to City Phase 2 route. This would benefit both business and tourism by providing a safer, more efficient way to move between the two urban centres.
The new route would integrate with the National Transport Authority’s (NTA) BusConnects corridors at strategic locations such as Victoria Cross and Model Farm Road, while also improving access to key destinations like Munster Technological University (MTU), the IDA Technology Park, and the wider Bishopstown area. This would make daily commuting easier for students, employees, and businesses, strengthening economic growth across the region.
As part of the East-West priority axis in the Cork Cycle Network Plan (2017), this upgrade would create a safer, more direct cycling connection, addressing current obstacles such as shared spaces, frequent call buttons, and forced dismounts. By eliminating these barriers, we can make cycling a viable, safe, and attractive transport option for the growing Ballincollig community.
We propose a dedicated North Ring Road orbital cycling route to enhance connectivity for the northern side of Cork City. This new route will link directly with the future BusConnects network, including the Blackpool and Mayfield Strategic Transport Corridors (STC) and the Glanmire to City Phase 2 route, offering a safer and more convenient cycling option for commuters and residents.
With the rise of electric bikes, Cork’s hilly terrain is no longer a major obstacle for cyclists. The Bike to Work Scheme and the growing popularity of cycling have made bike commuting a more practical and cost-effective choice for many.
The new orbital cycling route will serve as a key link (CCN-U14 / CCN-U25) for cyclists in Blackpool, City North Business Park, and Silversprings, improving access to key residential and commercial areas.
Additionally, the Spring Lane route (CCN-U40) will provide a direct connection to Blackpool Shopping Centre and major employment hubs. As part of this upgrade, we recommend removing the existing kissing gates to enhance accessibility for all cyclists, including those using cargo bikes or mobility aids.
The route will also integrate with the planned Ballyvolane Strategic Transport Corridor, further strengthening the city’s cycling infrastructure.
Finally, this new commuting-friendly cycling route will complement the Glen River Park leisure route, providing a direct, efficient, and safe alternative for those who rely on cycling for daily travel.
The Cork Cycling Campaign proposes a new East-West cycling route on North Main Street, allowing cyclists to travel in both directions. This will improve accessibility and create a safer, more connected cycling corridor.
A filtered permeability route will also be introduced, linking Washington Street to the North Quays. This will provide a direct, low-traffic connection for cyclists and pedestrians, reducing congestion while improving active travel options.
The new route will seamlessly connect existing cycle lanes on Kyrl’s Quay and Bachelors Quay, expanding the city’s cycling network and making commuting by bike more convenient.
By enabling two-way cycling access, the plan improves mobility for residents and students in new accommodations, making it easier to navigate the city.
These upgrades will also help increase footfall on North Main Street, benefiting local businesses and enhancing the vibrancy of the area.
Finally, this initiative supports Phase 8 of the Cork City Centre Movement Strategy, reinforcing Cork’s commitment to sustainable urban transport and improved infrastructure for all.
We propose improving the cycling connection on Kyrls Quay by linking it to the existing cycle lanes, making it easier for cyclists to travel along the quay.
We also plan to improve access to the two-way cycle lane on Christy Ring Bridge, which is the only bridge in the area with dedicated cycling infrastructure crossing over the north river channel.
This new route will provide a direct link to key locations such as the train station, MacCurtain Street, and the northern side of the city, improving overall connectivity for cyclists.
In addition, we will focus on upgrading and enhancing the safety of existing cycling facilities, ensuring a smoother and safer experience for all cyclists.
Finally, we aim to offer an alternative cycling route to the existing filtered route through Emmet Place, providing more options for cyclists and reducing congestion on other routes.
We propose creating a seamless connection between the Washington Street cycle lane and the South Mall cycle lane, improving the overall cycling route in the city. This connection is not part of the BusConnects project.
Currently, the South Mall cycle lane is difficult to access from Grand Parade when travelling eastbound. We aim to improve this access, making it easier and safer for cyclists to use the route.
There is also a pedestrian/cyclist conflict where the cycle lane starts and finishes near the kiosk at Peace Park. We will address this issue to ensure better safety and smoother flow for both pedestrians and cyclists.
The goal is to enhance East-West connectivity between these two primary cycle routes, providing a more efficient and safer journey for cyclists across the city.
A new East-West cycling route will improve connectivity between Clashduv, The Lough, and Turners Cross, providing a safer and more efficient link across the city.
This route will connect BusConnects Sustainable Transport Corridors (STCs) E, G, and H, creating a key orbital cycling corridor. It will also integrate with the recently upgraded Curragh Road scheme and align with the planned Clashduv-Sarsfield Road project, ensuring a cohesive cycling network.
The route will serve major community hubs, including supermarkets, parks, The Lough, schools, churches, and Virgin Media Park, making it a practical and accessible choice for residents and visitors.
As part of the 2017 Cork Cycle Network (CSW-U7 & CSW-U4), the plan includes mandatory cycle lanes in both directions on Togher Road and Pearse Road, ensuring dedicated and safer infrastructure for cyclists.
By linking key destinations and improving cycling infrastructure, this project will enhance urban mobility, promote sustainable transport, and support Cork’s vision for a more bike-friendly city.
Currently, there is no dedicated infrastructure on Middle Glanmire Road, creating safety concerns for residents, pedestrians, and cyclists.
To improve conditions, this Resident Priority Road proposal aims to retain vehicle access for residents and businesses while significantly reducing non-local traffic. This change will help create a calmer and safer environment.
Pedestrian accessibility will be enhanced by increasing space for those walking and using mobility aids, such as wheelchairs, ensuring a more inclusive streetscape.
Cyclists will continue to have two-way access, promoting sustainable transport while maintaining convenience for local travel.
Additional measures will include traffic calming to reduce vehicle speeds and lower noise pollution from fast-moving cars, improving the overall quality of life for those living nearby.
With many schools and residential areas along the route, these upgrades will make Middle Glanmire Road safer for all road users while preserving accessibility for those who need it most.
The current cycling routes linking Cork City, Glanmire, and Little Island have several flaws, with existing and planned cycle lanes ending in shared paths. Cyclists must also navigate a busy roundabout using multiple call buttons, making the journey inconvenient and unsafe.
A better connection with the Glanmire to City Phase 2 scheme is needed to create a seamless and safer cycling corridor.
Improving this link will enhance safety and make cycling a more attractive transport option for those commuting to Little Island and East Gate Business Park, reducing reliance on cars and supporting sustainable travel.
A bridge or underpass solution at this key junction would provide uninterrupted passage for cyclists, setting a new standard for cycling infrastructure in Cork.
Designed to best practice European standards, such a project would be comparable to leading examples like Eindhoven, making it a showpiece for sustainable urban mobility.
While Tramore Valley Park is a fantastic asset to Cork, it is primarily used for recreation. As one of Ireland’s largest urban parks, covering 160 acres it has huge potential to serve as more than just a leisure space.
A western entrance from the Togher and Ballyphehane area would significantly increase the park’s value by providing pedestrian and cyclist access to a key local amenity. This investment would also support active travel in a RAPID area, promoting more sustainable transport options for residents.
Better connectivity would link the park with Douglas, Turners Cross, and Grange, creating a vital active travel corridor. The new entrance could also tie in with the Airport to City and Kinsale Road to Douglas BusConnects Sustainable Transport Corridor (STC), improving integration with public transport.
Additionally, the park has the potential to serve as a starting point for the future Cork-Kinsale Greenway, further enhancing its role as a key hub for sustainable transport and outdoor activity.
A Cork Harbour ferry service would provide a practical and sustainable commuting option between Mahon, Little Island, and Eastgate Business Park, easing daily travel for workers while integrating with the City to Mahon BusConnects Sustainable Transport Corridor (STC).
Beyond commuting, the service could support leisure and tourism routes, linking the Marina Promenade, Blackrock, and Passage Greenway with an easy return to the city by water—offering locals and visitors a scenic, car-free way to explore Cork’s waterfront.
By reducing reliance on private cars, the ferry would help alleviate traffic congestion at the Dunkettle Interchange, one of Cork’s most heavily used junctions. It would also provide a much-needed alternative for cyclists, who cannot bring bikes on buses or trains during peak hours.
Stockholm FerryCities like Stockholm, Copenhagen, and Rotterdam have successfully implemented similar ferry services, showing the potential for Cork to follow suit. This proposal aligns with the City Development Plan, supports Cork’s ambition to be a world-class 15-minute city, and contributes to Net Zero 2030 targets.
In addition to benefiting tourism and active travel, a well-planned harbour ferry would relieve
pressure on the often congested South Ring Road and Jack Lynch Tunnel, making Cork a more accessible and sustainable city.
We call on both Cork City and County Councils to take a bold, strategic approach to building a citywide cycling network that works for all. A comprehensive, integrated network will make Cork a leader in sustainable mobility, benefiting residents, visitors, and future generations. The time to act is now. Let’s create a cycling network that Cork can be proud of - one that prioritizes safety, connectivity, and accessibility for all.
Lee to Sea Greenway
A better-connected network will bring Cork closer to its iconic landscapes – the Lee Valley and Cork Harbour – providing sustainable, easy ways to get around. The Lee to Sea Greenway is our vision for a world-class walking, running, and cycling route around the city and harbour.
About us
The Cork Cycling Campaign is a volunteer group promoting utility and recreational cycling in Cork City and County. Founded in 1999, the Campaign advocates for improved conditions for people cycling in Cork and strives for recognition and promotion of cycling as an essential form of transport. Cork Cycling Campaign has been the voice of people cycling in Cork for 20 years; we have over 500 members and over 20 volunteers. We engage regularly with the media and key stakeholders on transport questions.
We are completely funded by you based on donations and run by volunteers. If you want to see more Traffic Counters or a safer city, you can help our cause by donating.
As we continue to advocate for a connected and safe cycling infrastructure across Cork, we encourage Cork City and County Councils, to take action.
Together, we can create a city where cycling is not just a choice, but the most convenient and safe option for everyone. Your support is crucial in transforming Cork into a more sustainable, accessible city.
Whether you're a cyclist, a commuter, a local business owner, or part of the council, every effort counts. We are here to collaborate and offer help in any way we can to ensure that the vision of a fully connected cycling network becomes a reality. Let’s work together to build a bike-friendly Cork for all. Reach out to us today - your involvement makes all the difference!