A plan to reduce speed limits to 30kph across much of Dublin has been put out to public consultation.

The draft council bylaws propose that the lower limit be imposed in residential areas, near schools and on almost all city centre roads on a phased basis.

The default limit in most parts of the capital is currently set at 50kph, with a 30kph zone in place at the very centre of the city.

The new restriction would be enforced along the majority of streets between the two Dublin canals, and the North and South Circular roads, under the first phase of the plan from the end of 2016.

The second phase next year would see the restriction expanding to cover suburban areas on the outskirts of the city centre, such as Phibsborough, Glasnevin, Sandymount and Drimnagh.

City centre roads excluded from the plan include Pearse Street, College Street, College Green, Nassau Street and Essex Quay.

A 80kph limit would still apply to the sections of the Chapelizod bypass, Dublin Port Tunnel and Santry bypass.

Council officials also want to keep a 60kph limit on some other main routes, including parts of the Long Mile Road, Malahide Road and Griffith Avenue.

Proposed 30 kph speed limit would be set for parts highlighted here in yellow. Pink section shows areas where this limit already applies | Image: DCC

The plan is being supported by the family of Jake Brennan, the six-year-old who died after being struck down by a car outside his Kilkenny home in 2014. 

The boy's parents have since campaigned for lower speed limits in housing estates. 

Dublin City Council has given members of the public until August 24th to offer feedback on the draft bylaws, which it says were drawn up following assessment of previous accidents and consultation with gardaí.

Suggestions have also been sought for additional areas to include in a plan for a subsequent public consultation in 2017. 

Online submissions can be made here.