Chapter 3 Strategy Challenges
Section 3.3 discusses the Covid 19 pandemic and its likely impacts on future travel patterns/behaviour. Detailed research is not yet available in this regard and alternative future demand scenario planning which predicts a reduced travel demand. In the absence of data to back this claim, it is not in the opinion of the Council advisable to predict the outcomes of what is a constantly changing dynamic.
This section also discusses legacy development patterns which have created a car dependent out bound commuting culture. As set out above, County Meath experiences very high levels of out bound commuting in tandem with significant gaps in pubic transport provision. It is essential that the Strategy addresses these issues with constructive proposals at sub-regional, county and individual settlement level. Legacy development patterns on the edges of towns are creating demands for pedestrian connections. A commitment to address these issues would improve connectivity, increase travel options and address safety issues in clusters of residential development scattered throughout the region and on approaches to larger settlements.
It is important that the strategy addresses connectivity for rural areas in the region as these communities are largely car based. Focus on greenways, bus services, footpath provision etc. is required.
Section 4.3.2 lists projects in the Strategy that are relevant to the National Strategic Outcomes (NSO) defined by the NPF which have been incorporated into the NDP. It is noted that under NSO 2 – Enhanced Regional Accessibility protection and renewal of national roads and various national roads projects are both listed. The major national road schemes that are being developed in Meath, and which also provide public realm improvements, enhance public transport infrastructure and reduce peak journey times, and take into account the needs of pedestrians and cyclists are also relevant to other NSO’s as follows:
NSO 3 - Strengthened Rural Economies and Communities
Rural Development:
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- Strategic road improvement projects in rural areas ensure access to critical services such as education, healthcare & employment;
NSO 4 - Sustainable Mobility
Public Transport:
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- Road schemes provide public transport infrastructure to meet the needs of smaller towns, villages and rural areas. Legacy issues in bus routing can also be improved.
Cycling:
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- Assist in the development of a comprehensive network of safe cycling routes in towns and villages to address travel needs.
NSO 6 - High-Quality International Connectivity
Airports:
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- Enhancing land-side access to airports, particularly in public transport terms.
Ports:
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- Improve land transport connections to the major ports.
NSO 7 - Enhanced Amenities and Heritage
Walking & Cycling:
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- Major focus on improving walking and cycling routes, including continuous greenway networks are included in road projects.
Given the above contribution that the development of important road schemes such as the Slane Bypass and the N2 Rath to Kilmoon Scheme will make to achieving other NSOs, section 4.3.2 should recognise this under the NSOs listed. This will address any confusion that these schemes simply improve regional connectivity and reflect the multi-faceted analysis and considerations which are an intrinsic part of major road development projects. This in turn will help support such strategic projects in the region through the relevant statutory processes.