The BusConnects Galway: Dublin Road scheme has received planning consent from An Coimisiún Pleanála, paving the way for construction to begin on a major upgrade to one of the city's busiest routes.

The project will deliver a 3.9km corridor of continuous, high-quality public transport, pedestrian and cycling infrastructure along the R338 Dublin Road – stretching from east of the Moneenageisha Junction to the Doughiska Junction. The route runs alongside key facilities including the Atlantic Technological University, Merlin Park Hospital, Bon Secours Hospital, as well as several schools and residential areas.

The works will include new dedicated bus lanes in both directions, upgraded and enhanced bus stops, and significant improvements to walking and cycling facilities. Segregated cycle tracks and safer pedestrian routes will improve access and safety for commuters, residents and visitors along this main arterial road.

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Mayor of Galway, Cllr Mike Cubbard, said the decision marks an important step forward: "This is a very welcome development for much-needed public transport, walking and cycling infrastructure for Galway City. BusConnects Galway: Dublin Road serves a number of significant employers, educational institutions and residential areas on the Dublin Road. It's also a main artery into and through the city. It's essential for the sustainable development of the city that projects such as this can progress in Galway, so I welcome the decision of An Coimisiún Pleanála to grant planning consent for this project."

Leonard Cleary, Chief Executive of Galway City Council, added: "BusConnects Galway is a priority project for Galway City, with Dublin Road a significant route in the city's growing network of public transport infrastructure. Dublin Road will link into other completed and pending projects, including the Ballybane Road and Castlepark Road Cycle Network Scheme, the Doughiska Road South Cycle Network and the BusConnects Galway: Cross-City Link project."

As part of the approval, An Coimisiún Pleanála has granted consent for Galway City Council to compulsorily purchase a number of properties along the route. The scheme forms part of the wider Galway Transport Strategy and is funded by the National Transport Authority.

Further details on the BusConnects Galway: Dublin Road project are available at bcgdublinroad.ie