The Department of Transport has placed a hold on uncommitted expenditure for new public transport services.
The National Transport Authority (NTA) is no longer able to allow the introduction of an extra service on the 132 Bus Éireann route serving passengers in parts of west Wicklow.
Following correspondence with Wicklow TD Edward Timmins last week, the NTA confirmed they are not able to enhance public transport schedules in the area because the Department of Transport has placed a hold on uncommitted expenditure for new public transport services.
Reacting to the news, Deputy Timmins said the move is not acceptable.
“This area already has limited public transport options. I have contacted the Minister for Transport regarding this matter,” he said last week. “Earlier this week I also raised the matter directly at a meeting with the NTA.”
The 132 route is the only direct public transport link for many communities south of Blessington along the N81 corridor.
The service is considered essential for commuters working in Dublin, local students attending college and the elderly that rely on the service. It also provides a connection to the Luas and Irish Rail services.
Deputy Edward Timmins also expressed the need for the decision to be reversed.
“The current service is already overcrowded, limited in time, and hasn’t fully kept pace with the increased demand and transport needs of local residents here in West Wicklow.
“We must see more balanced regional development as stipulated by the National Development Plan and the Climate Action Plan.
“West Wicklow commuters need more transport options, and I will continue to keep the issue of the additional 132 bus on top of the national political agenda until it’s resolved.” he added.
Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme