Help us make CycleConnects better for all

We are grateful that the NTA is undertaking this project and welcome any effort to improve cycle infrastructure.

However, we have some concerns. The proposed routes are all subject to change and there are differences between these new CycleConnects maps, the CMATS maps, the Cork Cycle Network Plan Maps, and the Bus Connects Maps, making it very difficult to assess them, and showing a general lack of commitment to reviewing existing plans. We have also seen some sections of the proposed routes which are worrisome, such as "proposed" routes which differ from already-completed cycle infrastructure, or routes with extreme gradients.

There is also an apparent lack of coherent vision from CycleConnects with regarding the proposed routes themselves: it is unclear whether all of the proposed "cycle routes" will receive upgraded infrastructure, or will simply appear as more bicycle signs on existing infrastructure. There also appears to have been a conscious decision to co-opt greenways as transport infrastructure which is concerning as current greenway designs can be incompatible with transport-oriented end-users: greenways generally avoid urban areas, their end users seek leisurely speeds, and pedestrians and cyclists are mixed, whereas transport cycle networks generally connect urban areas, their end users seek the quickest route possible, and pedestrians and cyclists are segregated for the safety of both.

We would happily welcome improved infrastructure, but the proposed CycleConnects plans do not appear to be suitable for detailed feedback in their current format.

The end date for your submissions is 11th November 2022