Ireland's Transport Minister has commenced public consultation on new guidelines for cycle design across the country.

The new guidelines, part of the National Cycle Policy Framework, will supersede the existing manual, which dates from 1997.

Noel Dempsey said the draft guidelines were developed by a steering group comprising representatives of local authorities, transport agencies and other related organisations.

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Dublin Transportation Office coordinated the formulation.

"For the purposes of technical rigour, the draft has been reviewed and assessed by a group of international experts in cycle design," he said.

"The draft guidelines go beyond simply setting out design parameters for cycle routes.

"They also address the need to provide adequately for cyclists in sharing road space and the broader aim of ensuring appropriate traffic speeds to encourage larger numbers of cyclists."

However, the Minister said the guidelines are "not cast in stone at this stage".

"Even when the final version is published in the new year, the guidelines will be dynamic, to be updated electronically as is needed."

(PR)