A survey carried out by mobility solutions specialist, easytrip, Ireland’s only electronic parking and tolling tag provider, has revealed that Irish motorists are losing 14 days* on average per year commuting into the city centre. Respondents to the survey also believe that the proposed changes to the traffic flow on the north and south quays (even with the revised proposal to allow for one lane of general traffic from Bachelor’s Walk to Eden Quay and on towards Dublin Port) would see this figure increase by an additional 10 days** annually equating to a total of 24 days a year in the car.
Impact of proposed Dublin quays traffic flow changes
Of those surveyed 81% commuted to Dublin city centre by car with 73% stating that the proposed Dublin quays traffic flow system will affect them and also highlighted their concern for cyclists on the same route. More than 50% also highlighting that the changes would deter them from driving into the city.
Shopping In Dublin City
Retailers will be alarmed to find that 62% of those surveyed said that the proposed changes to the traffic on the quays would affect their decision to shop in Dublin city. Worryingly 95% of respondents said they would not buy a high priced item if they did not have their vehicle with them to take it home. Motorists also highlighted that they spend extra on food (49%) and refreshments (90%) whilst shopping in the city.
Activities
Activities that drivers travelled to Dublin city centre for, primarily at the weekend and for leisure purposes, included:
Eating out – 84%
Theatre – 62%
Concerts – 60%
Sporting fixtures – 45%
Cinema – 35%
Commenting on the survey, Colin Delaney, CEO of easytrip Ireland said: “We carried out this survey to find out what impact the proposed changes to the traffic flow on the quays would have and our survey has clearly revealed that these changes will affect drivers and have a significant impact on retailers also.”
“Driving into the city centre is the quickest option for many commuters, in particular, as the current public transport network isn’t suitable for their requirements (62% of those surveyed). It’s alarming to see that city commuting times total 14 days each year using a car, the mode of transport perceived to be the most efficient option by those surveyed. 14 days is too much and it would be absurd to impose longer travel times on stretched Dublin commuters at a time when the public transport infrastructure required to create an efficient, vibrant city centre, is not in place,” concluded Colin.
Customers of easytrip Ireland save on toll fees, avoid incurring fines on the M50 motorway and have access to all 11 toll plazas nationwide as well as exclusive cash-free access to 27 car parks across Belfast, Cork, Dublin, Galway, Kilkenny, Limerick and Waterford and other motoring services including puncture protect and easyAssist breakdown assistance. For more information visit www.easytrip.ie or call 1890 67 67 68.
