New traffic changes now in place banning left turn from Westland Row to Pearse Street

Irish Independent

26-05-2025

The first phase of the plan was introduced last August, banning private cars and commercial vehicles from travelling directly east or west along the Liffey at either side of O'Connell Bridge between 7am and 7pm daily.
The Transport Plan is a long-term strategy to reduce through-traffic in the city centre and encourage more people to walk, cycle, and use public transport.
The latest change, which was officially implemented yesterday, involves a new traffic arrangement at the junction of Westland Row and Pearse Street.
Only public transport, taxis, and cyclists will now be permitted to turn left from Westland Row onto Pearse Street.
Instead, general traffic, such as cars and delivery vans, will now have to turn right at the junction.
To facilitate this, the section of Pearse Street between Westland Row and Sandwith Street has been converted into a two-way street.
Traffic arrangements on Lombard Street East and Sandwith Street Upper will remain unchanged.
While Westland Row will no longer function as a direct through-route to Pearse Street, there will be no changes to existing disabled parking bays, loading bays, or taxi ranks in the area.
Dublin City Council anticipates a reduction in general traffic along Pearse Street from Westland Row towards Tara Street as a result of the new restrictions.
This is expected to create opportunities to improve the public realm with enhanced walking and cycling infrastructure, while continuing to prioritise public transport.
The new traffic restrictions will operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
The next phase of the plan will address traffic on Parliament Street.
The southside street, which faces pedestrianised Capel Street across the river, is set to become another car-free zone after 11am daily. This change is due to be implemented at the end of June.