Central Perks! Peripheral Gates To The Phoenix Park To Remain Closed To Facilitate Walking And Cycling

Peripheral vehicular gates, that were closed by the Office of Public Works (OPW) to facilitate cyclists and walkers during the lockdown phase of the Covid-19 pandemic, are to remain closed for the time being. Vehicular access to the park is currently only available via Castleknock Gate and Park Gate Street only.

Space for pedestrians and cyclists has increased by 33%, adjacent to the main spine of the park on Chesterfield Avenue, and the OPW has also introduced 7km of new cycle lanes in this area. No parking is currently allowed on Chesterfield Avenue either.

Further measures to curb traffic volumes are likely to be introduced in the coming months as the park has seen huge increase in visitors enjoying its biodiversity, natural landscape and wilderness.

Speaking about the latest developments, OPW Commissioner John McMahon, who has responsibility for heritage said, “The Park is Dublin’s ‘green lung’ and OPW is determined to ensure that the park is a safe, quiet, green space for our visitors, where flora and fauna thrives and where visitors’ health and well-being can be enhanced through experiencing the natural environment in the park.”

Some other new initiatives include:

• Over 70’s and medically vulnerable are being given priority at the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre Walled Garden, from 10am to 1pm daily. Priority parking is also available at Ashtown Demesne.
• Early risers and late exercisers can avail of special allocated parking at the Upper Glen car park.
• The Phoenix Park is open twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, all year round.
• Other car parks will not open until 10am each day to prioritise visitors and recreational users.
• There is a new shared recreation space on Furze Road for pedestrians and cyclists.
• Additional footpath space has been provided on the North Road from Cabra Gate to Garda HQ.