Why almost all Phoenix Park drivers break the speed limit

Why almost all Phoenix Park drivers break the speed limit

August 30, 2026 · 22 min

About this episode

The episode discusses the issue of speeding motorists in Dublin's Phoenix Park and the challenges faced by pedestrians and cyclists.

Every year, more than 10 million motorists drive through Dublin’s Phoenix Park. Almost all are breaking the speed limit. All of the park’s attractions, including Dublin Zoo, the People’s Gardens, the Ashtown Castle Visitor Centre, Farmleigh House and almost 2,300 parking spaces, are accessed from Chesterfield Avenue, the main road that bisects the park. Yet there is no dedicated way for pedestrians to cross this 4km-long road. And even if there were, crossing might still be perilous, as more than 95 per cent of motorists exceed the speed limit. And despite the addition of cycle lanes on some of the park’s roads, poor design and maintenance render many unfit for purpose. It’s a problem that has been recognised for years, so why haven’t speeding motorists been stopped? And how Dublin’s biggest park become a commuter rat run? Olivia Kelly, Irish Times Dublin editor and daily park user, explains. Presented by Bernice Harrison. Produced by Andrew McNair. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

People in this episode

Host: Bernice Harrison

Guest: Olivia Kelly

Topics covered

Keywords

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Irish Times

Places: Dublin, Phoenix Park, Dublin Zoo, People’s Gardens, Ashtown Castle Visitor Centre, Farmleigh House, Chesterfield Avenue

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