Concerns are already being raised about new plans to change the traffic layout in Dublin city centre.
Dublin City Council unveiled the traffic management plan today which will see cars banned from Westmoreland Street.
The plan also includes the extension of the College Green bus gate, which would instead run on a 24 hour basis.
Speaking on The Right Hook this evening Anne Graham, CEO of the National Transport Authority, said "cars still have to access the city... All we're asking for is that those drivers when accessing or going through the city centre that they would consider alternative routes".
She also said she believes commuters and cyclists will be welcoming the news. She started by describing what area of the city centre would be affected by the proposed changes:
Conor Faughnan From AA Ireland says if this is to go ahead there has to be a better service for commuters. He also says the proposal may affect city centre businesses:
There are also changes planned for the north and south quays, as well as D'Olier Street, to make it more bus, cycle and pedestrian friendly.
What D'Olier Street may look like | Image: Dublin City Council
Dubliners and interested groups will get to have their say when it goes to public consultation tomorrow.
Brendan O'Brien from Dublin City Council says many of the plans are as a result of the new Luas line.
The 'Dublin City Centre Transport Study' hopes to achieve objectives set out in the current Dublin City Development Plan, with targets crossing the canals "of 55% for public transport, 15% for cycling, 10% for walking and 20% for private car use in the annual cordon count by 2017".
The period of public consultation will run from tomorrow until July 16th.
Anyone who wants to give their views can do so online.
The future for Suffolk Street? | Image: Dublin City Council
Submissions can also be made at Dublin City Council's public libraries, area offices and customer services centre in Wood Quay.
Dublin City Council says traffic congestion levels in the capital are rising and, with an additional 42,000 morning-peak journeys into the city centre anticipated by 2023, plans need to be put in place now to meet targets and ensure that the city continues to function efficiently.
