Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 26 May 2026
401. Deputy John Connolly asked the Minister for Transport the position regarding the commencement of the review of the Galway Metropolitan Transport Strategy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39899/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe NTA, in conjunction with Galway City Council and Galway County Council, is developing the Galway Metropolitan Area Transport Strategy (GMATS). This strategy will replace the existing Galway Transport Strategy (GTS) adopted in 2016 and will provide a new long-term strategic planning framework for the delivery of transport and the integrated development of transport infrastructure and services in the Galway Metropolitan Area over a 20-year period.
The NTA had considered it appropriate to await An Coimisiún Pleanála’s determination on the re-submitted N6 Galway City Ring Road (GCRR) application before progressing further with GMATS, given the influence this project would have on the transport strategy. On Thursday 9th April 2026, the GCRR was granted permission by An Coimisiún Pleanála. Following the granting of permission the NTA have re-engaged with the GMATS project team, and work will recommence immediately on the development of the new Strategy.
The draft GMATS, once finalised, will be subject to a full public consultation, and will set down multi-modal transport proposals for the Galway Metropolitan Area, including recommendations for active travel, bus, rail, roads, and demand-management measures. It is anticipated that the draft GMATS will go to public consultation in late 2026, with a finalised Strategy in place in 2027.
