To ask the Minister for Transport the way in which it is proposed to resolve the likely traffic management nightmares presented by such examples as the convergence of road and rail traffic at the Red Cow Roundabout and the restriction on the height of vehicles using the Port Tunnel; and if he will make a statement on the matter - Bernard J. Durkan.
For ORAL answer on Wednesday, 21st May, 2003.
Ref No: 13733/03 Lottery: 19 Proof: 27
Answered by the Minister for Transport (Seamus Brennan)
REPLY
Discussions relating to the options for providing access for road vehicles to/from the Luas stop at the Red Cow depot are ongoing between the Railway Procurement Agency, the Dublin Transportation Office, the National Roads Authority and South Dublin County Council. I have appointed an independent advisor to assist in these discussions. My Department expects to receive a report on this issue shortly. The traffic arrangements at the Red Cow roundabout to facilitate access for the Luas have been agreed between all the parties concerned.
In relation to the Dublin Port Tunnel, I can assure the Deputy that the Port Tunnel, as currently designed, can cater for over 98% of all truck traffic likely to wish to use it. It is on a par with best international practice in terms of tunnel heights in a survey of 12 international countries, ten of those had height provisions equal to or less than the Dublin Port Tunnel.
Any amendment to the design of the tunnel to allow for a greater clearance height could unacceptably compromise safety in the tunnel and significantly delay the opening of this important infrastructure. It would also have considerable financial implications.
The Deputy should also be aware that my Department has completed an initial consultation process with interested parties with regard to the possible reintroduction of a maximum height for vehicles in use in a public place.
