Plans for the construction of Cork Luas continue to move forward with the results of the most recent public consultation showing strong support for improved public transport in the area.<\/p>\n
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Luas Cork is planned to run between Ballincollig and Mahon Point and would serve key destinations such as MTU, Cork University Hospital, UCC, Cork City Centre, Kent Station, Cork Docklands, Pairc Ui Chaoimh, Blackrock, and Mahon.<\/p>\n
Earlier this year a non-statutory Preferred Route consultation took place with the results of this now released in the form of a report. The consultation has found that there remains strong support for improved public transport in Cork, with those responding highlighting the need for reliable, high-capacity public transport to support the continued growth of the city, reduce congestion and provide a sustainable alternative to private car use.<\/p>\n
The key findings of the consultation included views that although Luas Cork is widely seen as a positive development it should also ensure that community facilities, schools, sporting organisations and residential areas are protected and considered during the design.<\/p>\n
As is usual with consultations of this type there were also requests for refinements to the planned route to allow for continued access and to consider the impact on established communities.<\/p>\n
Of those who answered the survey 85.2% support the development with only 8.8% saying they were against the plans.<\/p>\n
The next steps will now see Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) review the findings of the consultation and use the feedback to inform the next stage of development. This will include developing the preliminary design, considering local issues, progressing environmental and technical assessments, continuing stakeholder engagement and preparation for the Railway Order process (the equivalent of the Transport and Works Act order needed in the UK).<\/p>\n