The Point Pedestrian and Cycle Bridge and Tom Clarke Bridge Widening Works
Dublin City Council plans to introduce a cycling and pedestrian bridge across the River Liffey at The Point. It will be located adjacent to the existing Tom Clarke Bridge in Ringsend. This scheme is at the Preliminary Design phase.
Dublin City Council has started to plan and design the Point Pedestrian and Cycle Bridge, as well as the Tom Clarke Bridge Widening Works. This scheme is part of Dublin City Council's Active Travel Network and will be funded by both the National Transport Authority and Dublin City Council.
You can view our interactive map to see where this scheme fits into the overall Active Travel Network.
The proposed bridge is a cycling and pedestrian bridge located directly adjacent to the west of the existing Tom Clarke Bridge in Ringsend. The bridge is approximately 150 metres in length, spanning from North Wall Quay to Ringsend on the southside of the River Liffey.
Scope and Purpose
Concept Development and Option Selection
Preliminary Design
Statutory Processes and Public Consultation
Detailed Design and Procurement
Construction
Close-Out and Review
Learn More About This Scheme
Key Changes
The Point Pedestrian and Cycle Bridge and Tom Clarke Bridge Widening Works will significantly enhance the North and South Docklands regions. The changes aim to rectify the insufficient Active Travel facilities on Tom Clarke Bridge and provide a safe crossing link for pedestrians and cyclists across the River Liffey. Existing features of the Tom Clarke Bridge will also be enhanced.
The main components of this scheme include:
The Point Pedestrian and Cycle Bridge
- A new pedestrian and cyclist bridge, approximately 150 metres in length, will be constructed.
- The bridge's design will mirror that of the existing Tom Clarke Bridge, featuring five spans: four fixed spans and a central opening span.
- The existing control building will be demolished and a new control tower located between the two bridges will be constructed.
- Additional public realm space on the bridge will provide seating and scenic views of the River Liffey and Dublin City to the west.
Tom Clarke Bridge Enhancements
- Widening of the northern and southern fixed spans of the Tom Clarke Bridge.
- Upgrading of current elements of the bridge, including barriers, lighting columns and traffic signals.
This scheme aims to enhance connectivity and accessibility for pedestrians and cyclists in the Docklands by providing a safe crossing over the River Liffey. By doing this, Dublin City Council aims to:
- Bring communities closer together by making it safer and easier to walk or cycle.
- Improving infrastructure will encourage more people to walk or cycle to work, school and leisure destinations in Ringsend, Point Village, and beyond, including popular locations like Ringsend Park, St. Patrick’s Boys’ National School, and the 3Arena.
- Enhancing road safety by providing segregated routes for road users.
- Promoting healthier and more sustainable lifestyles by encouraging active modes of transportation.
The new bridge will span the River Liffey in the Docklands area, immediately west of the existing Tom Clarke Bridge. This will establish a vital link between the North and South Quays.
The bridge will provide a dedicated crossing for pedestrians and cyclists away from vehicular traffic. This will offer a safe and convenient alternative to the existing Tom Clarke Bridge for pedestrians and cyclists who want to travel from North Wall and The Point Village area to the Grand Canal, Ringsend and Irishtown areas. It will also be part of a vital link on the East Coast Trail connecting the north and south routes for cyclists.
Subject to necessary approvals and permits, construction is due to commence in 2027. Construction is estimated to take between 18 and 24 months.
The new bridge's design will segregate pedestrians and cyclists on the bridge. Other features, such as ample lighting, signage and barrier protection, will enhance safety for all users.
Yes, the bridge will be fully accessible. Accessibility features, such as wayfinding aids, ramps and tactile paving, will be integrated into the design.
During construction of the bridge, work will be carried out in the Liffey River and at the Point Bridge abutments. Temporary traffic management measures will be implemented to minimise disruptions to surrounding roads and ensure the smooth flow of traffic.
Temporary traffic management measures will also be implemented to minimise disruptions during the Tom Clarke Bridge widening works. Traffic may potentially be routed over the newly constructed Point Bridge to reduce diversion times and lengths.
Every effort will be made to minimise disruptions to local businesses during the construction phase. Coordination meetings with stakeholders, scheduled updates and clear communication channels will be established to promptly address any concerns.
The bridge's design will be sensitive to the surrounding environment and Dublin's architectural heritage. Careful consideration will be given to materials, aesthetics and landscaping. The proposed control tower will pay homage to the Docklands area.
The Point Bridge will open at the same time as the existing Tom Clarke Bridge. Openings will be coordinated with river traffic to minimise disruptions to navigation on the River Liffey and to road users. Safety barriers will be installed along the Point Bridge's pathways to ensure that pedestrians and cyclists are protected during openings.
The opening and closing of the Point Bridge and Tom Clarke Bridge will be conducted by trained personnel in a dedicated new control tower located between the two bridges.
Yes, an Appropriate Assessment Screening Report was completed. Due to the size and nature of this project, an Environmental Impact Assessment Report and an Appropriate Assessment Report will be carried out and submitted to An Bord Pleanála.
The widening of the Tom Clarke Bridge is being carried out simultaneously with the construction of the new Point Bridge to make it safer environment for all users. The proposed works will also improve traffic flow from the bridge and upgrade existing parapets.