Royal Canal Greenway Phase 4 submission - part 8 November 2023
3rd November 2023
Royal Canal Greenway Phase 4
Submission to Public Consultation Amending Part 8 application to approved Part 8 (Ref.2870/15), under Part 8 of the Planning and Development Regulations 2001, as amended
We welcome Phase 4 of the Royal Canal Greenway and the segregated pathway for pedestrians and cyclists. In particular, the removal of the kissing gates allowing increased access for cargo bikes and wheelchairs is long overdue.
Segregation:
While most of the greenway will be segregated between pedestrians and cyclists, we are very concerned that the 1km stretch from Cross Guns Bridge to the railway underpass beyond Coke Oven Cottages is not segregated at all. With the narrowing of the canal, the emphasis seems to be on providing sufficient room along the greenway for two cars to pass each other to access the cottages. This stretch of the canal is heavily used by pedestrians and cyclists, and already the increasing use of electric bikes and scooters is leading to difficulties for pedestrians. We really don’t think that car access and segregation between pedestrians and cyclists are incompatible along here, especially given the extremely low level of car traffic.
Creosote contamination:
The creosote contamination on the southern side of the canal along the stretch east of lock 7 is a major concern in the context of narrowing the canal. This has not been addressed in the documentation relating to this application. A public risk assessment of this work is required in light of the creosote issue to assess the dangers to local residents as well as the flora and fauna along the canal and establish how it should be dealt with. We urge caution here and call for sensitive treatment of local biodiversity.
Wildlife:
That an otter derogation licence had to be sought for the canal narrowing is a source of great unease locally as they are important part of the ecosystem of the canal. The narrowing works are also causing unease given that the canal is a rare example of freshwater habitat- and according to DCC’s biodiversity action plan, just 1% of Dublin is freshwater habitat. Everything possible must be done to ensure that wildlife is protected and habitats are not excessively disturbed.
Active travel links:
Active travel along the canal would be enhanced by improved permeability, which could be provided by a pedestrian and cyclist bridge over the canal linking Cabra to Glasnevin.
Pinch points:
We look forward to further information on how the pinch point at the railway underpass will be dealt with when plans are developed for Phase 4C.