Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 December 2025
269. Deputy John Connolly asked the Minister for Transport for an update on the progression of the Cross City Link in Galway post the adjudication on the judicial review process; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [71559/25]
View answerAs the Deputy may be aware, BusConnects is a transformative programme of investment in the bus system, providing better bus services across our cities, including Galway. BusConnects is the largest investment in the bus system in the history of the State, and is managed by the National Transport Authority (NTA).
The Cross-City Link is a 6.7km scheme that aims to create a Sustainable Transport Corridor from the northeast of Galway to the northwest, crossing Droichead an Dóchais (formerly known as the Salmon Weir Bridge). Once constructed, will help to improve travel times on the bus network and to improve connections for pedestrians and cyclists.
Galway City Council submitted a planning application in September 2022 to An Coimisiún Pleanála for the project. An Oral Hearing for the project was held in February 2024. An Coimisiún Pleanála granted planning permission in 2024; however, it is subject to judicial review, which is still ongoing.
The National Development Plan Review 2025 Sectoral Plan for Transport allocates funding to BusConnects Galway to commence the construction of Sustainable Transport Corridors, subject to the outcome of the planning process and any subsequent legal challenges.
Noting the NTA's responsibility in the matter, I have referred the Deputy's question to the NTA for a more detailed reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.
