The National Transport Authority recently published its results from the largest survey of walking, wheeling, and cycling undertaken in Ireland to date. The survey found that these three modes of travel take 680,000 cars off of roads each day in Cork, Dublin, Galway, Limerick, and Waterford. Active travel activities are also responsible for an economic benefit across the five cities of more than €3bn annually.

This survey, incorporating opinions from Cork, Galway, Limerick/Shannon, Waterford, and Dublin, shows that over half of the adult population walks frequently, with a keen interest in increasing their walking, wheeling, and cycling activities. Public support for increased government spending on active travel infrastructure is notably high, reflecting a strong desire for improved and safer conditions for pedestrians and cyclists.

The benefits of active travel extend to public health, preventing 5,844 serious health conditions annually and saving costs equivalent to 1.6 million GP appointments. Environmental gains are also substantial, with a reduction of 160,000 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions, akin to preventing 2.2 million flights from Dublin to London. The article underscores the public's preference for better footpath surfaces, more green spaces, and segregated cycle paths to enhance active travel experiences.

These findings advocate for a strategic shift in urban planning and transportation policies towards prioritising active travel, supported by public demand for better infrastructure. Such initiatives align with the government's vision of reimagining cities as safer, cleaner environments, focusing on the wellbeing of communities over car dominance. This underscores the critical role of active travel in achieving sustainable mobility and environmental goals, encouraging professionals in the field to drive forward these initiatives for a healthier, more sustainable Ireland.

For more information, see here.

The 2023 Walking and Cycling Index is available here.