Cabinet Gives Green Light to Multi-Billion Euro BusConnects Cork Programme

Government approval secured today for transformative public transport project that will deliver 90km of bus lanes, 95km of cycle routes, and over 50% more bus services across Cork city and suburbs, with planning applications expected in 2026.

Cork's public transport system is set for its biggest overhaul in decades after Cabinet approved the BusConnects Cork programme this morning. The multi-billion euro investment will reshape how people travel across the city, with an extra 13,000 residents able to reach the city centre by public transport within 30 minutes.

The programme will deliver 11 Sustainable Transport Corridors covering 90km of segregated bus lanes and 95km of cycle lane facilities across Cork city and suburbs. Two bus routes will operate around the clock, one running east to west and another north to south, whilst overall bus services will increase by 53%.

Darragh O'Brien, Minister for Transport, said:

"Today's approval of BusConnects Cork is another example of the Government meeting its commitments to invest in sustainable transport. BusConnects Cork will make it faster and easier to get to school, work, or visit family and friends. And by reducing congestion, it will make our streets safer for all."

The National Transport Authority developed the programme following extensive public consultation. Planning applications for the infrastructure will be lodged with An Coimisiún Pleanála next year, marking the next stage of development.

Seán Canney, Minister of State with responsibility for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports, said:

"BusConnects Cork is transformative and ambitious, mapping out a modern, efficient and sustainable transport system for the city. It will not only improve connectivity and help reduce journey times, but also support economic growth and our climate goals."

For Cork residents who've endured years of traffic congestion on routes like the N40 and M8, the programme promises significant relief. The investment includes new bus stops and shelters, a zero-emission bus fleet, simplified fares, and upgraded ticketing systems allowing payment via mobile phones.

Jerry Buttimer, Minister of State with responsibility for Rural Transport and a Cork city resident, said:

"This project has potential to transform the way we move across the city, increasing our transport options and making travel by bus and bike more attractive. There will of course be challenges, as with any ambitious project, but the benefits for the city and its residents will be considerable."

The estimated cost ranges between €2.3 billion and €3.5 billion. Even at the upper estimate, the programme will generate €1.50 in benefits for every €1 spent, according to government analysis.

Hugh Creegan, Interim CEO of the National Transport Authority, welcomed the decision, stating:

"This is a significant step forward for sustainable transport in Cork. The BusConnects programme will deliver a cleaner, faster and more efficient transport system for the people of Cork, making it easier for people to use public transport as part of their daily lives."

The programme forms part of the Cork Metropolitan Area Transport Strategy 2040, adopted in 2020 to deliver an integrated transport network supporting the city's growth as a competitive European region.

Construction will involve traffic management measures to minimise disruption, with extensive communication arrangements to keep affected residents informed throughout the works.

Further information is available at https://busconnects.ie/cities/cork.