Kilkenny councillors seek clarification on shuttle bus linking Ferrybank and Waterford

Councillors in South Kilkenny are seeking clarification from Waterford City and County Council on the fate of a planned courtesy shuttle bus service envisaged to improve connectivity between Ferrybank and Waterford City.

This electric shuttle bus had been planned as part of the North Quays project to transport passengers from the new transport hub in Ferrybank (currently under construction) across the new sustainable transport bridge (also under construction) into Waterford City.

Reports have circulated in recent weeks stating that a change in developer has put the fate of the project and its delivery into question.

The issue was raised by Cllr Pat Dunphy at the most recent meeting of the elected members of Piltown Municipal District.

"There are reports that the bus is not happening now," he said.

"It would be very important for older people and is a good selling point [of the North Quays project]."

Cllr Ger Frisby stated that 'Waterford councillors are up in arms' and added that 'we [the councillors of Piltown MD] support them on it'.

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Cllr Fidelis Doherty stated that the plans are 'all about sustainability' and expressed concern about the fate of the shuttle bus being brought into question.

Cllr Tomás Breathnach highlighted the fact that the 'location of the transport hub' is 'vital to bridge being there'.

"Having a shuttle bus to bring people [into Waterford City] seems to be logical, even at a minimum charge if it can't be provided for free, to stop more cars and congestion [from Ferrybank to the quays in Waterford City]." 

Councillors proposed to write to Waterford for full clarification on the fate of the shuttle bus, with Cllr Ger Frisby concluding discussion on the issue by expressing his hope for a response for next month's meeting.

Councillors noted that the delivery of the service will have an impact for many people in South Kilkenny, particularly in Ferrybank, which is bisected by the Kilkenny-Waterford county border.

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