Independent Councillor David Daniels has voiced strong opposition to the Williamstown Road Active Travel Scheme, raising concerns about its design, traffic impact and planning at Waterford City and County Council’s Metropolitan District meeting.
Cllr. Daniels warned that the proposal risks repeating problems experienced with other recent active travel and road projects across the city.
Cllr. Daniels said the Farranshoneen roundabout upgrade has failed to deliver and instead caused “serious and unacceptable traffic delays.”
He also pointed to ongoing issues linked to the Tramore Ring Road Active Travel scheme, both of which he said have proven controversial.
And added that any works proposed for Williamstown Road must undergo “rigorous planning and design,” given the importance of the route to local residents and commuters.
He confirmed that council officials will bring a review of the Farranshoneen roundabout to the Transport Strategic Policy Committee and asked for clarity on when that report will become available.
The councillor also sought detailed information on the planned works under the Williamstown Road Active Travel Scheme, including construction methods, timelines and the anticipated impact on traffic.
Cllr. Daniels said more than one thousand cars use the road and stated he would not support any changes that extend what he described as the “disastrous” works carried out at Farranshoneen.
Further concerns were raised about active travel measures already introduced in Tramore, questioning whether similar road narrowing and bus stop layouts are planned for Williamstown Road.
Describing existing arrangements in Tramore as dangerous and said they contribute to congestion, particularly where vehicles attempt to pass stopped buses.
Cllr. Daniels said he does not support removing road space for cycling infrastructure and noted that plans previously circulated suggested using the existing grass verge along Williamstown Road for a bus lane rather than a cycleway.
Adding that this approach would deliver greater benefit across all sectors of society.
Proposed Development
Waterford City and County Council has confirmed plans to construct a 2.3-kilometre Active Travel scheme along the L1523 Williamstown Road, running from the Farranshoneen Roundabout on the Outer Ring Road to Ballygunner Cross.
The proposal includes a fully segregated two-way cycleway built on the existing grass verge, new footpath sections, junction tightening measures, three pedestrian crossings and additional public lighting.
The council says the project aims to improve safety for vulnerable road users, enhance pedestrian connectivity and provide safer crossing points along the route.
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