Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 5 February 2025
328. Deputy Emer Currie asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform to provide the full costs involved in strategic reviews, studies, consultations, and plans in relation to the Phoenix Park, including the Phoenix Park Visitor Experience, the Phoenix Park Transport and Mobility Options Study, and Phoenix Park Parking Strategy, in tabular form. [2954/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Office of Public Works (OPW) has undertaken three studies/reviews in the Phoenix Park in recent years; the Phoenix Park Visitor Experience Strategic review, the Phoenix Park Transport and Mobility Options Study, and the Phoenix Park Parking Strategy.
The OPW and the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, under a partnership agreement with Fáilte Ireland, received funding to undertake a strategic review of visitor experience in the Phoenix Park. There were three objectives of the Review:
1. To review the future ‘tourism’ development potential of the Phoenix Park
2. To prepare a development plan for the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre
3. To prepare a development plan for the Magazine Fort.
The total cost for the ‘Phoenix Park Visitor Experience Strategic Review’ was €353,366.50. Fáilte Ireland grant-aided this project to the value of €300,000 and the balance was funded by the OPW.
The ‘Phoenix Park Transport and Mobility Options Study’ aimed to develop a coherent framework for how visitors access, experience, and move within the Phoenix Park while protecting the Park’s character and enhancing the overall visitor experience. The study was undertaken by consultants appointed by the National Transport Authority (NTA) and was largely funded by the NTA. The OPW provided some funding to the value of €4,500.
The ‘Phoenix Park Parking Strategy’ was commissioned on foot of recommendations set out in the aforementioned Phoenix Park Transport & Mobility Options Study. It considers both vehicular and cycle parking, and the needs and parking requirements of those with mobility issues. It provides a comprehensive vision for parking management in the Phoenix Park and complements existing wider plans, policies and strategies adopted by the OPW and key stakeholders. This report is due to be published shortly.
The total cost of the ‘Phoenix Park Parking Strategy’ was €98,699.65.
|
- |
Amount Ex VAT |
|
Phoenix Park Visitor Experience |
€353,366.50* |
|
Phoenix Park Transport and Mobility Options Study |
€4,500 |
|
Phoenix Park Parking Strategy |
€98,699.65 |
