The Liffey Corridor Project (Liffey Cycle Route Permanent Scheme)

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Stemming from the “Liffey Cycle Route” the Liffey Corridor project is a proposal to transform the Liffey Quays in Dublin by developing a 3 kilometre-long active travel and green corridor. Linking the Phoenix Park and Heuston Station with the Matt Talbot Memorial Bridge at the edge of the Dublin Docklands, the project aims to radically change citizens perceptions of the Liffey Quays, encourage a shift to sustainable modes of transport; improve safety for cyclists through the provision of a continuous, segregated cycle route on both sides of the Liffey Quays; and make Dublin city healthier, more accessible, and climate-resilient through public realm improvements and green infrastructure.

    Liffey Corridor Area - Active Travel Map

    A cycle route along the Liffey Quays is a critical project for both Dublin City Council (DCC) and the National Transport Authority (NTA), it is identified as an objective in the DCC Development Plan and as Route ‘N5’ of the Greater Dublin Area Cycle Network Plan. Although this project had previously been driven by the objective to develop a ‘Liffey Cycle Route’, there is an opportunity to maximise value for money by integrating pedestrian, public realm and environmental improvements alongside the provision of new cycling infrastructure; thereby delivering additional benefits in terms of improved accessibility, local environment, quality of life, and climate resilience for Dublin and its residents.

    Since the selection of a recommended route in 2019, DCC has explored additional options that optimise the design of the Liffey Cycle Route to deliver these co-benefits, and the new project title of the ‘Liffey Corridor’ reflects the potential of the project in developing both a sustainable transport and green corridor through the heart of Dublin city centre.

    The Liffey Corridor will deliver improved accessibility, improved local environment, improved quality of life and improved climate resilience

    Scheme Proposals

    • High Quality one-way segregated cycle route along the North and South Quays that will meet the requirements of cyclists of varied experience.
    • Upgrade of existing public realm and footpaths
    • Upgrade junctions to provide additional pedestrian and cyclist improvements.
    • New boardwalks on the North Quays at Ellis Quay
    • New boardwalks on the South Quays @ Aston Quay, Crampton Quay, Wellington Quay and Essex Quay
    • Improve Bus priority.
    • Additional greening along the route – Option for a tree lined median where achievable.
    • Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SUDS) along the route
    • Preservation of heritage materials.
    • Upgrades to existing traffic signal operational infrastructure.

    Scheme Benefits

    • Safety improvements for walking, cycling and public transport
    • Accommodating modal shift towards sustainable modes- Increase in leisure, educational and commuting trips.
    • Economic benefits for shops, hospitality, deliveries, and culture. Tourism benefits with walking and cycling tours and increased footfall in the area.
    • Health Benefits-Encouraging physical activity by creating an attractive environment for exercise.
    • Environmental- Air quality improvements, reduction in fossil fuel consumption, Creating a more Climate Resilient city through landscaping and Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems SUDS
    • Increased Bus priority and increased capacity at bus stops.

    Timeline

    A Consultant is currently finalising the Strategic Assessment Report (SAR) for the Liffey Corridor Project. The SAR is the first stage in the Lifecycle and Decision Gates of the Public Spending Code for projects estimated over 10m.

    It is envisaged that the SAR will be lodged with the NTA for approval in Q4 2022, approval will also be required from the Department of Public Expenditure & Reform as the project is estimated to be above €100m.

    Pending approval the project can then proceed to the Preliminary Business Case and Options selection stage as required by the Public Spending Code.

    Currently it is envisaged that the Permanent Liffey Corridor Project will be delivered on site post 2027 as part of the overall Active Travel Network plan.

    Interim Liffey Cycle Route

    Interim Cycling measures have been installed at a number of sections along the Liffey Corridor between Heuston Station and O’Connell Bridge. Further interim measures are proposed along:

    1. Eden Quay (0.25km section) from O’ Connell Bridge to Butt Bridge/Beresford Place. Installation works are proposed to commence in Nov/ Dec 2022.
    2. Georges's Quay, Burgh Quay, Aston Quay and Crampton Quay ( 0.8km) from Talbot Memorial Bridge to Ha’penny Bridge. Installation works are proposed for Q1 2023