Park Bridge and Park Road Traffic Reassignment, Traffic Calming and

Pedestrian and Cyclist Improvements

Part 8 Planning Report

August 2014

i

Rhebogue Neighbourhood Greenway Planning Report

August 2014 ii

Table of Contents

1 Application Documentation ..................................................... 1 1.1 Part 8 Application Form .............................................................................................. 1 1.2 Copy of Newspaper Notice ......................................................................................... 5 1.3 Copy of Site Notice ..................................................................................................... 6 1.4 Site Location Plans ..................................................................................................... 8 1.5 Site Notice Locations .................................................................................................. 9

2 Project Introduction ............................................................... 10 2.1 Background: Ireland's Smarter Travel Demonstration City (2012 - 2016) ................. 10 2.2 Project Vision ........................................................................................................... 11 2.3 Project Purpose ........................................................................................................ 12 2.4 Project Description ................................................................................................... 14 2.5 Project Scope ........................................................................................................... 14

3 Planning Context .................................................................... 15 3.1 Introduction .............................................................................................................. 15 3.2 National Policy .......................................................................................................... 15 3.3 Regional Policy ......................................................................................................... 15 3.4 Local Policy .............................................................................................................. 16

4 Environmental Impact ............................................................ 18 4.1 Appropriate Assessment Screening .......................................................................... 18 4.2 Synopsis of Findings ................................................................................................ 18

5 Proposed Development ......................................................... 19 5.1 Design Approach and Methodology .......................................................................... 19 5.2 Proposed 30 km/h Speed Limit Zone ........................................................................ 19 5.3 Proposed Traffic Reassignment ............................................................................... 20 5.4 Proposed Traffic Calming ......................................................................................... 21 5.5 Proposed Pedestrian and Cyclist Access ................................................................. 21 5.6 Proposed Public Lighting .......................................................................................... 22 5.7 Utility Ducting ........................................................................................................... 22 5.8 Proposed Signage .................................................................................................... 23 5.9 Visibility Mirror .......................................................................................................... 23 5.10 Demountable Bollards .............................................................................................. 23

List of Figures Figure 1 Overall Site Location Map ................................................................................. 8

Figure 2 Proposed Works Extents .................................................................................. 8

Figure 3 Site Notice Locations ........................................................................................ 9

Figure 4 Limerick Smarter Travel Future Targets ........................................................ 10

Figure 5 Limerick Smarter Travel Hubs ........................................................................ 11

Figure 6 Proposed LST Cycle and Walking Network ................................................... 12

Appendices

Appendix A Appropriate Assessment Screening Report ................................................ 24

Appendix B Drawings .................................................................................................... 50

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Appendix C Correspondence ........................................................................................ 50

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1 APPLICATION DOCUMENTATION

1.1 Part 8 Application Form

Limerick City & County Council

Economic Development & Planning Department

DEVELOPMENT PROPOSED BY, ON BEHALF OF OR IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

PLANNING AUTHORITY APPLICATION FORM

Part XI Planning & Development Acts, 2000-2013

Part 8 Planning & Development Regulations, 2001-2013

ADMINISTRATIVE USE

ONLY:

DATE RECEIVED:

REFERENCE NO:

____________________________

Administrative Officer

____________________________

Date

All APPLICATIONS SHALL BE SENT TO:

Economic Development & Planning Department, Limerick City & County Council, 7/8 Patrick Street,

Limerick.

Telephone: 061-407210 Fax: 061-410401 E-mail: planning@limerick.ie

PLEASE COMPLETE THIS FORM IN FULL. INCOMPLETE SECTIONS MAY LEAD TO A DELAY

IN PROCESSING YOUR APPLICATION.

1. LOCATION OF PROPOSAL: Park Bridge and Park Road (Parallel to Park Canal)

F8

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2. NATURE & EXTENT OF DEVELOPMENT PROPOSAL:

Implementation of a one-way traffic system northbound on Park Bridge and one–way

traffic system eastbound on a section of Park Road (parallel to Park Canal);

Retention of the existing two-way traffic system on Lower Park Road (Canal section)

and Hymees Boreen (Northern end) to serve local access only;

Reduction in speed from a 50 km/h to a 30 km/h speed limit zone along a section of

Park Road (parallel to Park Canal);

Provision of a shared surface (in contrast surfacing) on Park Bridge and along a section

of Park Road (parallel to Park Canal);

Provision of contra flow cycle lanes on a section of Park Road (parallel to Park Canal)

and the Park Bridge.

Provision of three raised table tops on this section of Park Road as a traffic calming

measure;

Re-grading of exiting turning head North of Park Canal on Lower Park Road;

Installation of utility ducting along Park road (Park Canal); and

Provision of all associated signage, bollards, road markings, coloured surfacing, public

lighting, sections of new footpaths and ancillary works.

3. IN THE CASE OF APPLICATIONS FOR A MATERIAL CHANGE OF USE OR FOR RETENTION

OF SUCH MATERIAL CHANGE OF USE PLEASE STATE:

(A) EXISTING USE: n/a

(B) PROPOSED USE: n/a

(C) NATURE & EXTENT OF ANY SUCH PROPOSED USE: n/a 4. NUMBER OF RESIDENTIAL UNITS PROPOSED (IF APPLICABLE): n/a

5. NUMBER OF HOUSES: n/a AND/OR APARTMENTS): n/a

6. AREA OF THE SITE: HECTARES): n/a ACRES): n/a

(1 Hectare = 2.471 Acres)

LEGAL INTEREST

7. LEGAL INTEREST OF APPLICANT IN THE SITE OF THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT:

OWNER: Limerick City and County Council

OR

OTHER (PLEASE SPECIFY):

PUBLIC NOTICES

8. NAME OF NEWSPAPER IN WHICH PUBLIC NOTICE WAS PUBLISHED: Limerick Leader (City

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and County Edition)

9. DATE OF PUBLICATION: 30th of August 2014 (Thursdays Leader 28th of August 2014)

10. DATE SITE NOTICE WAS ERECTED ON SITE: Wednesday 29th of August 2014

FLOOR AREA: RESIDENTIAL

11. (A) NEW BUILDING(S) RESIDENTIAL FLOOR AREA PER UNIT n/a m²

GROSS FLOOR AREA n/a m²

PTO →

(B) EXTENSION TO DWELLING GROSS FLOOR AREA _____n/a___m²

(C) OTHER DOMESTIC FLOOR AREA PER UNIT ___n/a__ m² (SHEDS, GARDEN SHEDS, GARAGES ETC) GROSS FLOOR AREA ____n/a___ m²

FLOOR AREA: OTHER

12. (A) Other Development (i.e. car-park etc) Floor Area per Unit n/a m²

Gross Floor Area n/a m²

(B) Change of Use Floor Area per Unit n/a m²

Gross Floor Area n/a m²

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT

13. IS AN EIS SUBMITTED WITH THIS APPLICATION: YES/NO: No_______

APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT

14. HAS AN AA BEEN SUBMITTED WITH THIS APPLICATION: YES ( ) NO (x )

SIGNED ON BEHALF OF LIMERICK CITY & COUNTY COUNCIL: _____________________________

DIRECTOR OF SERVICE

DATED: _________________________

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NOTES: REQUIREMENTS FOR A VALID APPLICATION

1. The relevant Department shall engage with the Planning Department in respect of the proposal to ensure: (a) The proposal is in accordance with the City/County/Local Area Development Plans and relevant Government Guidelines (b) The design of the development is acceptable and (c) The drawings are in accordance with the relevant Regulations.

2. Part 8 application to be available in the Planning Department from the date stated in the newspaper notice.

3. Part 8 application form to be signed by the relevant Director of Service.

4. Newspaper and Site Notices shall comply with the requirements of the Planning Regulations. PTO →

5. All Part 8 applications to be accompanied by a report from the Roads/Water Services and Environment Departments that they have no objection to the proposal as submitted. Any required amendments must be incorporated into the submitted design.

6. Any submissions or objections received in the Planning Department during the period for submissions will be forwarded to the Department responsible for preparing the Part 8 application for comment. The Department shall submit a report on the submissions received and proposed alterations to the proposal. This report must be presented 14 days prior to the Council meeting.

7. Requests for Further Information or Clarification will be directed to the Department responsible for preparing the Part 8 application for reply

8. Where the period for making submissions ends less than 14 days prior to a Council Meeting, the Manager’s Report will not be on the Agenda for that Council meeting.

9. Where responses to submissions or further information requests are not received by the Planning Department at least 14 days prior to a Council meeting the Manager’s report will not be on the Agenda for that Council Meeting.

10. 6 Copies of Drawings shall be submitted.

It is advised that a proposal will require approximately 12 weeks to be processed prior to presentation

to the Council.

Your attention is also drawn to the fact that proposals where the inspection/submission period takes

in the Christmas holiday period, an extra nine days should be added to the above time frame in

accordance with the Regulations

You should also bear in mind when preparing a Part 8 submission that Council Meetings are not held

during the month of August.

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1.2 Copy of Newspaper Notice

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1.3 Copy of Site Notice

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1.4 Site Location Plans

The proposed works site location and extents are shown in Figure 1 and Figure 2,

respectively.

Figure 1 Overall Site Location Map

Figure 2 Proposed Works Extents

Park Bridge

Park Road

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1.5 Site Notice Locations

Site notices will be provided at three locations as shown in Figure 3 below, and Drawing No.

1057401-001-011 provided in the Appendix B.

Figure 3 Site Notice Locations

Key:

Site Notice Location

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2 PROJECT INTRODUCTION

2.1 Background: Ireland's Smarter Travel Demonstration City (2012 - 2016)

Limerick City has been designated as one of three centres in Ireland that are to become

Ireland’s First Smarter Travel Demonstration Areas. The Limerick submission was ranked

first of all submissions received by the Department of Transport from all Local Authorities in

Ireland. As a Demonstration City, Limerick will receive funding of €9 million over five years

to roll out a wide range of measures and interventions targeted at encouraging people to use

more sustainable modes of transport and to engage in transport planning in four Smarter

Travel Hubs. The four hubs comprise of:

The City and its core;

Castletroy (including the University and the National Technology Park);

Regeneration area of Southill (including a large inner city community and an

extensive employment centre, including light industry); and

Corbally (made up of a largely suburban community, separated from the city by two

river crossings and restricted road capacity).

The LST hubs and targets are provided in Figure 4 and Figure 5, respectively.

Figure 4 Limerick Smarter Travel Future Targets

The Limerick Smarter Travel (LST) project is being delivered by the newly amalgamated

Limerick City and County Council, in partnership with the University of Limerick (UL). The

main objective of the LST Project is to connect the four key hubs of Limerick City and

suburbs by the development and promotion of sustainable modes of transport for those

living, working and studying in these areas. The project provides the opportunity to assess

LST measures across a range of communities in an urban context.

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Figure 5 Limerick Smarter Travel Hubs

The aim of the scheme is to transform people’s travel behaviour, with support from local

businesses and communities and should result in reduced congestion and pollution,

improved road safety, create local employment opportunities, and improve people’s health

and fitness, as well as enhancing town and streetscapes locally.

In doing so, LST aims to reduce single occupancy car use, by facilitating, promoting and

encouraging walking, cycling, public transport use, and car sharing by connecting the four

hubs via a number of routes and links.

2.2 Project Vision

This proposed scheme incorporates Park Bridge and a section of Park Road (parallel to Park

Canal), as shown previously in Figure 2. This section of Park Road forms part of LST’s

Route 2 which provides a walking and cycling route between the City Centre and UL

(detailed further in Section 2.3), and the only on road section of the route. This section of

Park Road is also used as a link into Rhebogue for vehicular traffic.

Park Bridge links Lower Park Road to Park Road. It is a short, narrow-back bridge, only

capable of accommodating flows of traffic in one direction at any one time. It is currently

subjected to a 3 tonne vehicle weight limit. Despite this restriction, the bridge is used as a

‘rat-run’ by traffic travelling between the Corbally Road and the Dublin Road and also by the

large residential area north of the canal.

The original LST submission identifies Route 2 as a major flagship walking and cycling link

for Limerick City (detailed further in Section 3).

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The completion of Route 2 identifies a walking and cycling vision for Limerick City and UL

and provides a strategic approach to further the realisation of Irelands transport policy

‘Smarter Travel – A Sustainable Transport Future.’ The redesign of this only on road section

of this route is vital to ensure a continuous and safe walking and cycling link between

Limerick City Centre, UL and the residential areas (i.e. Corbally and Rhebogue) that also

access the Canal and riverbank.

At a time when the benefits of walking and cycling are being increasingly recognised, there

is also a growing recognition that further action is likely to be required for these benefits to

be fully realised. This design provides a strategic direction to encourage and direct such

future action.

2.3 Project Purpose

2.3.1 LST Route 2 Link 1

LST Infrastructural works commenced in 2013 on an existing pathway, which extends from

Athlunkard Bridge along the riverbank as far as the Guinness Bridge at Park Canal, known

as LST Route 2, Link 1 (Limerick City Council Planning Reference No. C12/5), as shown in

Figure 6.

When the path is completed it will provide 1.62 km of good quality shared surface, running

parallel to the River Shannon. The proposed works have been broken into two phases. The

first phase has been completed and runs from the Athlunkard Bridge to the end of the public

lands on the Shannon Fields. The second phase will be carried out in the later stages of the

project, as shown in Figure 6.

Figure 6 Proposed LST Cycle and Walking Network

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2.3.2 LST Route 3

LST is currently finalising infrastructural works on the Old Dublin Road and Dublin Road that

form part of a link between Limerick City and the UL via the R445 Dublin Road, known as

Route 3 (Limerick County Council Planning Reference No. 12/6005). This Route has been

broken into two phases. Phase 1 includes improvement works from the Parkway

Roundabout to the entrance to the UL, which are almost complete, as shown in Figure 6.

2.3.3 Proposed Rhebogue Neighbourhood Greenway

LST have submitted a Part 8 planning application for a proposed Rhebogue Neighbourhood

Greenway, as shown in Figure 6. This Neighbourhood Greenway incorporates Rhebogue

Road and Hymee’s Boreen. Hymee’s Boreen terminates just south of the Canal where the

section of Park Road runs adjacent to the Canal. The completion of the proposed Rhebogue

Neighbourhood Greenway would provide a safer alternative route to the City Centre avoiding

the busy R445 Dublin Road.

2.3.4 LST Route 2 and Connectivity

The design and Appropriate Assessment of Route 2, the flagship walking/cycleway from the

City Centre to the University of Limerick via the Canal and the banks of the River Shannon,

is now complete and has been submitted to An Bord Pleanala (Planning Reference No.

30.JP0027). This is the statutory planning procedure as the proposed walking and cycle

way traverses a Special Area of Conservation. Further works planned under LST include the

upgrade of the existing canal walk which is a vital link between the city and the University of

Limerick.

This proposed development on Park Bridge and a section of Park Road (parallel to Park

Canal) includes the introduction of a one-way traffic system northbound on Park Bridge, and

eastbound on a section of Park Road (adjacent to the canal only). This again is the road

network that connects Corbally to UL and into the City centre. The proposals include

improved pedestrian and cyclist access along the canal which would form part of the

complete proposed Route 2.

The completion of Route 2 Link 1, Route 2 (including this proposed scheme comprising Park

Bridge and Park Road adjacent to the Canal), Route 3, and the Rhebogue Neighbourhood

Greenway would provide a safe and continuous network for pedestrian and cyclists which

would ultimately connect Corbally, UL (and Castletroy) and the City Centre, as shown in

Figure 6.

The proposed scheme would further improve safety and ease of linkage and connectivity

into the City Centre. The proposals are detailed further in Section 2.4. This road network

improvement will directly link in with the Rhebogue Neighbourhood Greenway and is the

central and significant connection between Route 3, Route 2 and further linking into Route 2

Link 1 (Shannon Fields) and the City Centre via the Park Canal.

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Following completion of all smarter travel routes, LST will be promoting the Canal Bank to

University off and on road link as a safe cycling and walking route for commuters and leisure

users alike. It is important therefore that the traffic management at Park Bridge is revised

and modified owing to its significance within the smarter travel commuter and leisure

corridor.

2.4 Project Description

This proposed design identifies existing and potential walking and cycling along the Canal

and the surrounding community. The design seeks to address issues including increasing

safety and improving the experience for those who already walk and cycle in the area. The

following infrastructural improvements are proposed:

Implementation of a one-way traffic system northbound on Park Bridge and one–way traffic

system eastbound on a section of Park Road (parallel to Park Canal);

Retention of the existing two-way traffic system on Lower Park Road (Canal section) and

Hymees Boreen (Northern end) to serve local access only;

Reduction in speed from a 50 km/h to a 30 km/h speed limit zone along a section of Park

Road (parallel to Park Canal);

Provision of a shared surface (in contrast surfacing) on Park Bridge and along a section of

Park Road (parallel to Park Canal);

Provision of contra flow cycle lanes on a section of Park Road (parallel to Park Canal) and the

Park Bridge.

Provision of three raised table tops on this section of Park Road as a traffic calming measure;

Re-grading of exiting turning head North of Park Canal on Lower Park Road;

Installation of utility ducting along Park road (Park Canal); and

Provision of all associated signage, bollards, road markings, coloured surfacing, public

lighting, sections of new footpaths and ancillary works.

2.5 Project Scope

This design considers walking and cycling improvement opportunities along the Canal and

ultimately the completion of LST’s Route 2. The design includes associated 30 km/h speed

limit zone, traffic restrictions, and traffic calming measures. While it is not the specific

purpose of this design to address broader transport issues, the design does incorporate

opportunities to support the former Limerick City Councils (now the amalgamated Limerick

City and County Council) alternative transport initiatives, as identified in the Limerick City

Councils Limerick City Development Plan 2010-2016 (detailed in Section 3).

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3 PLANNING CONTEXT

3.1 Introduction

The design of the LST Park Bridge and a section of Park Road (parallel to Park Canal) has

been closely informed by national, regional and local planning and policy objectives. The

following section details the relevant documents at national, regional and local levels.

3.2 National Policy

The Irish Government’s Smarter Travel, A Sustainable Transport Future, A New Transport

Policy for Ireland 2009-2020 key goals, targets and actions, by 2020, include the following:

“Work-related commuting by car will be reduced from a current modal share of 65%

to 45%”;

“Car drivers will be accommodated on other modes such as walking, cycling, public

transport and car sharing (to the extent that car commuting by these modes will rise

to 55% by 2020)”;

“Our vision is to create a strong cycling culture in Ireland and ensure that all cities,

towns, villages, and rural areas will be cycling-friendly. Cycling will be a normal way

to get about, especially for short trips. Next to walking, cycling will be the most

popular means of getting to school, both for primary and secondary school”;

“A culture of cycling will be developed to the extent that, by 2020, we envisage

around 160,000 people cycling for their daily commute, up from 35,000 in 2006.

Cycling will be encouraged as a mode for other purposes so that by 2020 10% of all

our trips will be by bike”; and

“We will ensure that urban walking networks are strengthened by increasing

opportunities for walking and removing constraints”, “including providing sate

pedestrian routes.”

(Smarter Travel, 2009)

Smarter Travel policy aims to:

“....retrofit areas towards creating sustainable neighbourhoods so that walking and cycling

can be the best options for local trips, for example to reach local facilities such as shops and

schools.”

(Smarter Travel, 2009)

3.3 Regional Policy

The Midwest Area Strategic Plan (MWASP) 2010-2022, the planning, land use and

transportation strategy for the Midwest region supports National Smarter Travel objectives

describing Local Authorities investment into Smarter Travel as ‘forming the basis of

achieving behavioural change in targeted areas’ (MWASP 2010-2022 pg. 35).

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Policy T-PHH-04 describes the MWASP Strategy as one that should promote healthy

lifestyle choices in respect of transport mode selection targeting an increase in healthy

transport options utilised, such as cycling and walking. The proposed development is in

accordance with the transport policies and objectives in the Limerick City Development Plan

2010-2016.

3.4 Local Policy

3.4.1 Limerick City Development Plan 2010-2016

The City Development Plan for Limerick 2010-2016 sets out an overall vision for the county

and Corbally/Rhebogue area (to include Park Bridge and Park Canal) in a range of goals

supported by specific aims and objectives. With regard Limerick Smarter Travel and the

objective of this project, the policies included are of key relevance.

It is Limerick City Councils’ policy to:

“to promote and deliver a sustainable and integrated transportation and landuse

management system for Limerick City.”

(Policy TR.2 Integrating Land Use & Transportation Policies)

It is Limerick City Councils’ policy to:

“Maintain and enhance the planning, design and maintenance of the transportation and

roads infrastructure in the City to ensure improved safety, promote economic growth, social

inclusion and amenity for all road users.”

(Policy TR.5 Enhancement of Road Infrastructure)

It is Limerick City Councils’ policy to:

“to implement traffic calming measures in appropriate areas throughout the City.”

(Policy TR.8 Traffic Calming)

It is Limerick City Councils’ policy to:

“Prioritize the provision of safe facilities for Pedestrians and Cyclists throughout the City.”

(Policy TR.9 Cycling & Walking)

It is Limerick City Councils’ policy to enhance the traffic management provision by:

“That all traffic management and traffic calming schemes be designed and constructed as

per Department of Transport guidelines embracing the philosophy of catering for all road

users by managing the road network so that fair access is afforded to all.”

(Policy TR.11 Traffic Management Control)

The Limerick City Development Plan 2010-2016 also outlines key policies and objectives for

suburban areas within the city including Rhebogue/Corbally.

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Rhebogue/Corbally (which included Park Road, Park Canal and Park Bridge) was

extensively surveyed in respect of character and land uses allowing the City Council to be

guided by specific objectives for individual suburban areas. The Limerick City Development

Plan 2010-2016 highlights the lack of community facilities in the Park and Rhebogue area

naming the Canal Bank as an important recreational facility.

The City Council will be guided by the following specific objectives in relation to the Corbally/

Rhebogue Area:

To seek the development of the Park Canal as a sustainable transportation link

between the University of Limerick and the city centre

To protect and enhance the open spaces adjacent to the Special Area of

Conservation in particular to enhance their recreational value.

“To provide and improve where necessary, the footpaths in the Park and Rhebogue

area in particular in the vicinity of the railway bridges;”

“To promote a high standard of urban design with a clear sense of place and

architectural quality that respects the existing character;”

“To ensure the provision of infrastructure appropriate to the needs of the area and

the emerging intensification of use.”

(Chapter 14 Area Profiles pg 143)

3.4.2 Limerick Smarter Travel

Section 5.2.5 Cycling Safety, of the LST bid document outlines LST’s commitment to

providing safe cycling conditions and reducing traffic speed:

“We will ensure that the right conditions for safe cycling are provided in Limerick

through reducing speed limits, driver feedback signage and tabletop treatments at

junctions,“ and

“...there will also be the introduction of 30 kph speed limit at a number of locations”

(Limerick Smarter Travel Stage 2 Bid Document)

The LST Design Report identifies the benefits of introducing a significant number of

measures to contribute to an overall enhanced public realm, in particular along the Canal, as

follows:

“Public Realm Benefits – A significant number of measures we are proposing as part of the

Limerick Smarter Travel project contribute to an overall enhanced public realm across the

entire study area. Open, pedestrian friendly spaces with adequate lighting and signage will

make walking a more attractive option. Fewer cars will bring less congestion, reduced noise

levels and better air quality. The cycle and walking route along the riverbank and canal

connecting the university with the city centre is a measure which will make a significant

contribution to the public realm.”

(Limerick Smarter Travel Stage 2 Bid Document)

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4 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

4.1 Appropriate Assessment Screening

An Appropriate Assessment Screening on the Canal Bank including Park Bridge, Rhebogue

Road and Hymee’s Boreen was undertaken by Ecofact Environmental Consultants on behalf

Limerick Smarter Travel to fulfil the requirements of EU Habitats Directive (92/34/EEC). The

full report is included in Appendix A of this document.

The screening document provides the information required in order to establish whether or

not the proposed development is likely to have a significant impact on Natura 2000 sites in

the context of their conservation objectives and specifically on the habitats and species for

which Natura 2000 sites have been designated.

4.2 Synopsis of Findings

The screening took into account the Canal Bank refurbishments, the re-assigning of Park

Bridge and Rhebogue Neighbourhood development which are all located within and adjacent

to the Lower River Shannon cSAC site designation. The screening established the proposed

works would not have the potential to result in significant impacts to the Natura 2000 site

network, specifically in relation to impacts affecting the conservation interests of the Lower

River Shannon cSAC.

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5 PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT

5.1 Design Approach and Methodology

A scheme design has been produced by Mouchel design consultants for Park Bridge and a

section of Park Road (parallel to Park Canal) to improve safety, comfort and security for

pedestrians and cyclists. The scheme has been prepared in the context of the following:

Limerick Smarter Travel Stage 2 Bid Document (2010);

Limerick City Councils Limerick City Development Plan (2010–2016);

The Department of Transport’s Smarter Travel – A Sustainable Transport Future

(2009-2020); and

The Department of Transport’s National Cycle Policy Framework (2009-2020).

The designs have been prepared with reference to relevant guidance documents, including

the following:

Design Manual for Urban Roads and Streets (DMURS) issued by the DTTAS and the

Department for Environment, Community and Local Government (2013);

Traffic Signs Manual, issued by the Department of Transport (2010);

Traffic Management Guidelines, issued by the Department of Transport, the Dublin

Transportation Office, and the Department of the Environment and Local

Government (2003); and

National Cycle Manual, published by the National Transport Authority (2011).

The aim of this design for Park Bridge and a section of Park Road (parallel to Park Canal) is

to create an area that controls vehicle speeds and provides continuous and safe access for

pedestrians, and cyclists. This has been achieved in the proposed design via the following

measures:

A 30 km/h speed limit zone;

Traffic reassignment (reductions and restrictions);

Traffic calming; and

Two-way access for pedestrians and cyclists.

These proposed measures are detailed further in the following sections.

5.2 Proposed 30 km/h Speed Limit Zone

At present Park Bridge and Park Road are located within the 50 km/h urban speed limit of

Limerick City. The fatality risk at 50 km/h is more than twice as high as the risk at 40 km/h

and more than five times higher than the risk at 30 km/h. The first 30 km/h zone started as a

pilot project in Buxtehude, Germany in 1983. After that, several other 30 km/h zones were

implemented all over Europe. Since then, these zones have become very popular globally.

At 30 km/h, the probability of a cyclist surviving a collision with a motor vehicle is 95%; at 50

km/h, the chance is 50% (Copenhagenize Consulting, 2012).

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According to DMURS (2013) where vehicle movement priorities are low, such as on local

streets, lower speed limits should be applied (i.e. 30 km/h). Table 4.1 of DMURS provides a

design speed selection matrix, which indicates the links between place, movement, and

speed that need to be considered in order to achieve an effective and balanced design

speed solution. Park Bridge and Park Road are local suburban streets and therefore a 30

km/h speed limit is deemed appropriate at this location.

5.3 Proposed Traffic Reassignment

5.3.1 Background

Park Bridge is located along the City Canal in Limerick City, linking Lower Park Road to Park

Road. It is a short, narrow-back bridge, only capable of accommodating flows of traffic in

one direction at any one time. It is currently subjected to a 3 tonne vehicle weight limit.

Despite this restriction, the bridge is used as a ‘rat-run’ by traffic travelling between the

Corbally Road and the Dublin Road and also by the large residential area north of the canal.

The existing bridge has poor alignment, structural and visibility issues as a result of vertical

and horizontal constraints. The construction of Pa Healy Road in 2007 enabled improved

access to Limerick City from the suburb of Corbally and also from the great southeast Clare

area relieving traffic congestion for commuters and local residents alike.

5.3.2 Traffic Impact Assessment Study

LST commissioned Arup Consulting Engineers to carry out a Transport Assessment on a

number of junctions in Limerick City as part of the LST Programme. An original assessment

involved the full closure of Park Bridge to vehicular traffic. This was presented in a Traffic

Impact Assessment report issued in February 2014.

Following the preparation of the Traffic Impact Assessment, LST requested Arup to appraise

an additional scenario to include the closure of Park Bridge to southbound vehicular traffic

reserving its use for southbound pedestrians and cyclists only. Northbound traffic would

continue to use the bridge as per current conditions. This additional scenario supplements

previous scenarios carried out in the aforementioned Traffic Impact Assessment.

The impact the proposed scheme would have on the prevailing traffic network was assessed

and localised analyses were carried out at a number of junctions in the vicinity of Park

Bridge on Corbally Road, Clare Street, Park Road and Dublin Road. Traffic models were

created for the proposed opening year (2014) and 15 years after opening (2029) during

morning and evening peak times, using VISSIM micro-simulation traffic modelling software.

5.3.3 Conclusion and Design Implications

The assessment concluded that the impact of the proposed one-way traffic system on the

prevailing road network would be to an acceptable level, based on comparisons with queue

lengths and journey schemes with and without the proposed restrictions in place. The

proposed one-way traffic system is shown in Drawing No. 1057401-001-010 provided in the

Appendix B.

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The proposed design includes the re-grading of an existing turning head on Lower Park

Road and appropriate signage on the approaching road network to facilitate turning

movements and warn motorists of the traffic restrictions ahead, respectively. The proposed

re-grading of the existing turning head is shown in Drawing No. 1057401-001-010 and the

proposed signage locations are shown in Drawing No. 1057401-001-011 provided in the

Appendix B.

5.4 Proposed Traffic Calming

Traffic calming is one important application when designing for pedestrians and cyclists in a

mixed traffic environment. In the first instance, traffic would be calmed by the proposed

introduction of a 30 km/h speed limit zone. Park Bridge at present acts as a natural traffic

calming measure, given its existing width restrictions. However, there is a need to ensure

this 30 km/h speeds are maintained along Park Road.

DMURS recommends that raised tables should be provided to promote lower design

speeds, slow turning vehicles at junctions, and to enable pedestrians to cross safely.

Opportunities have been identified to use these horizontal alignment constraints to keep low

speeds down. With reference to the Traffic Management Guidelines, it is recommended that

features should be located as regularly and frequently as practicable (70-100 metres).

Therefore, the Park Road section of the design includes a number of proposed raised tables

to slow vehicles throughout this section of Park Road. These deflections require drivers to

slow down and to navigate obstacles, at less than 70 metre intervals along Park Road

(parallel to Park Canal).

These horizontal constraints, or raised tables, would have the following effects:

Reduction in speed;

Improve safety;

Highlight 30 km/h zone;

Removal of long straights that encourage speeds; and

Provide opportunities for scheme enhancement including hard and soft landscaping,

where possible.

The proposed design includes three raised tables. The proposed raised table locations are

shown in Drawing No. 1057401-001-010 provided in the Appendix B.

5.5 Proposed Pedestrian and Cyclist Access

5.5.1 Shared surface

Shared surface streets and junctions are integrated spaces where pedestrians, cyclists and

vehicles share the main carriageway. With reference to DMURS, shared surfaces are an

effective way of providing pedestrians and cyclists with a more enjoyable experience,

Shared surface streets and junctions are particularly effective at calming traffic.

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Research has found that shared carriageways perform well in terms of safety and there is

also evidence to suggest that well designed schemes in appropriate settings can bring

benefits in terms of visual amenity, economic performance and perceptions of personal

safety (DMURS, 2013).

It is proposed to provide a shared surface along Park Bridge and a section of Park Road

(parallel to Park Canal) in a contrast coloured surface as shown in Drawing No. 1057401-

001-010 provided in the Appendix B. The proposed shared surface would allow for the

continuous movement of pedestrians and cyclists through the area.

5.5.2 Contra-flow Cycle Lanes

The proposed redesign includes a one way traffic system. However, the proposed design

does not include any restrictions for cyclists or pedestrians. The main aim of this design is to

ensure safe and continuous access for pedestrians and cyclists and ultimately the

continuation and completion of Route 2 which links Limerick City Centre with UL via the

Canal and river banks.

The proposed shared surface will facilitate two way movements for pedestrians. In addition,

the proposed design includes contra flow cycle lanes to facilitate two way cycling along Park

Bridge and along the extent of Park Road, parallel to the Canal as shown in Drawing No.

1057401-001-010 provided in the Appendix B. The introduction of contra-flow cycle facilities

within an urban one way system can significantly improve in directness and the attraction of

cycling. The National Cycle Manual (2011) recommends that contra-flow cycle should be

provided on access roads or quiet streets in town centres, where speed of 30km/h or less

exists.

5.6 Proposed Public Lighting

The National Cycle Manual recommends that public lighting (70w Son-t lanterns, 6 to 8

metres in height) should be provided at 34-metre intervals in residential areas to enable road

users, including cyclists, to see each other, as well as objects on or next to the road, at a

reasonable distance. The design provides proposed lighting to meet the recommended

standards, and in appropriate locations, as required.

5.7 Utility Ducting

Utility duct will be provided along the Park Road (Canal Section) for future provision of

services.

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5.8 Proposed Signage

The design includes appropriate signage and road markings as required, and with reference

to the Traffic Signs Manual. The proposed signage is shown in Drawing No. 1057401-001-

010 provided in the Appendix B.

5.9 Convex Mirror

A convex mirror will be provided to enhance visibility for motorists existing an existing access

in one location on Park Road (Canal Section). Convex mirror location is shown in Drawing

no. 1057401-001-010.

5.10 Demountable Bollards

Demountable bollards will be provided at the Park Road and Hymee’s Boreen junction at the

entry to the canal walk/cycleway. Demountable bollards will be provided for maintenance

access similar to what is existing on Limerick Smarter Travel Route 2 Link 1 at Shannon

Fields as shown in Figure 7. Location of bollards is shown in Drawing no. 1057401-001-010.

Figure 7 Demountable Bollards on LST Route 2 Link 1 Shannon Fields. .

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Appendix A Appropriate Assessment Screening Report

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Appendix B Drawings

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Appendix C Correspondence