Our outline plan for a cycle lane network for Dundalk. The Dundalk Cycling Alliance feel it can be provided quickly, at low cost and with minimum distruption. The plan is based on similar successfulmodels used across Europe.

The cycle lanes described here will give people in Dundalk, Blackrock and Haggardstown the option of cycling in safety to where they work, play, pray, learn and do business. Any disruption to motor transport the network causes, will be more than offset by the reduction in vehicle traffic it leads to. Making Dundalk cycle friendly will truly make it a gateway town and act as a stimulus to tourism. It will give Dundalk the traffic infrastructure normal in Holland, Scandinavia and Germany and by reducing fumes and noise, it will make Dundalk a healthier and quieter town.

Aims and Concerns

• Traffic congestion can be reduced as a result of having fewer cars on our streets. There will subsequently be fewer traffic delays. For short journeys this can be achieved by encouraging more people to walk or cycle instead of using the car.
• Safety for Cyclists. Dundalk streets and almost all of our country roads are hazardous and at times very dangerous for cyclists. This safety concern is the primary reason for the small number of cyclists. Safe or off road cycle lanes are an absolute necessity if we are to have any reasonable hope of encouraging more people to cycle.
• Obesity and associated heart diseases will be reduced in the long term, as a result of people, young and old, getting regular moderate exercise while travelling to school or work on their bicycles.
• Compliance with Kyoto Agreement. Green house gas emissions will be reduced if significant numbers of people can be encouraged to begin making regular cycling journeys of 1 to 4 miles within the North Louth Area. The burning of petrol and diesel is a very significant cause of Global Warming and will increase the possibility of flooding in all low lying coastal towns such as Dundalk.
• Sustainable Energy Ireland. A safe cycle lane infrastructure goes hand in hand with the aspirations of Sustainable Energy Ireland's plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in Dundalk.
• Broader Socio-Economic Advantages. When Dundalk Town Council in co-operation with Louth County Council quickly constructs a comprehensive, safe, high quality, user friendly cycle lane network in the greater Dundalk area, it will raise its national profile to tourists and investors alike as well as increasing the quality of life for all its citizens.