Client: Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council
DBFL were appointed by Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council to undertake the Preliminary Design, Detailed Design, Tender, Construction and Handover for the Deansgrange Cycle Scheme. The scheme proposals consist of delivering high quality walking and cycling facilities that will meet the current school and commuting demand within the Deansgrange area. The scheme will provide an important connection between two of the proposed routes within the Active School Travel project, the “Park to Park” route and the “Mountains to Metals” route.
The Deansgrange Cycle Scheme will provide high quality walking and cycling infrastructure along Kill Lane and Deansgrange Road. These facilities have the aim of providing sustainable transportation for both school and commuter users within the area.
The cycle facilities on Deansgrange Road consist of a two way cycle track on one side of the road. This was considered as the preferred option during the Feasibility & Option Development Stage which was completed by others. DBFL adopted this option and proceeded with the Preliminary Design and Planning Stage on this basis.
A challenge during the Planning Stage for the scheme was the high number of submissions from stakeholders relating to the choice of route for the scheme. A design amendment was made to the Preliminary Design during the Planning Stage in order to alleviate these concerns and progress the scheme through Planning, to Detailed Design.
A particular challenge during the Detailed Design stage was the requirement to retain as much existing footpath on Deansgrange Road. A detailed three-dimensional modal was developed taking account of existing road and footpath levels whilst adhering to the requirements of the NTA Cycle Design Manual. The scheme also involved the design of new walls, piers and railings for Deansgrange Cemetery. DBFL appointed a Conservation Architect to ensure that the design of these features were in keeping with the existing character and heritage of the cemetery. At Construction Stage, DBFL were a key player in the terms of stakeholder liaison and proactivley changed the design as required and provide timely repsnses to third party interface issues.
The scheme overall forms a key sustainability initiative whereby it delivers improved walking and cycling facilities along Kill Lane and the Deansgrange Road. The scheme also plays an important role in connecting two larger proposed walking and cycling projects within the DLRCC Active Travel Schemes.
Project Director