7th April 2025 - Galway
A significant boost to public transport in Galway has been delivered with the launch of a new and improved bus service for the Parkmore area, home to one of the city’s most important employment hubs.
The newly completed Parkmore Road Bus Priority Project, officially opened today by Minister of State for Transport, Seán Canney, includes the early delivery of a dedicated bus lane on Parkmore Road, dramatically improving journey times for commuters. As part of the project, Bus Éireann’s busy Route 409 has been extended into Parkmore Business Park West, now serving new bus stops located at major employers including Medtronic and Celestica.
The expansion, which came into operation on March 9, is aimed at offering more convenient, reliable, and sustainable travel options for the estimated 10,000 people working in Parkmore. Galway City Council led the project through its Active Travel Department, with funding provided by the National Transport Authority (NTA). The initiative has also received support from the Industrial Development Agency (IDA), local businesses, and the Parkmore Traffic Action Group.
Minister Canney praised the development, noting its dual benefit: “This initiative will not only ease congestion and improve air quality in the area, but it will also make it safer and faster for people to travel between their homes and workplaces. It’s a clear example of how investment in public transport can improve daily life and help meet climate goals.”
Galway City Council Chief Executive, Leonard Cleary, said the project demonstrates the power of collaboration: “Supporting public transport is vital to tackling traffic congestion in Galway. By enhancing the 409 bus route, we’re making progress toward a more sustainable and accessible city.”
Bus Éireann, which operates the service, reported that Route 409 was the fastest-growing city route last year, with almost 2 million passengers. Brian Connolly, Senior Operations Officer for the West, said the extension is a key part of efforts to improve connectivity: “The success of this route shows real public demand. With these upgrades, we’re offering a more affordable and dependable alternative to private car use.”
The project involved the construction of six new bus stops, four signalised pedestrian crossings, high-quality footpaths, and upgraded junctions. Road works were undertaken by Jons Civil Engineering, with consultancy support from DBFL.
The new bus lane will serve not only the 409 but also the 401 route, and it will form an integral part of the future Galway Bus Network Redesign led by the NTA. A planning application has also been submitted to build a permanent turning circle and rest facilities for drivers in Parkmore.
Joe Seymour of the NTA said the project reflects a wider commitment to offering more sustainable transport options: “We’re investing in infrastructure that gives people real choices. This is a great example of local and national agencies working together to meet community needs.”
Ricky Conneely, IDA Ireland’s West Regional Manager, highlighted the initiative’s value to employers: “Reliable public transport makes it easier to attract and retain staff, which is crucial in today’s competitive job market.”
The Parkmore Bus Priority Project is being hailed as a model for integrated transport development in Galway, delivering both practical benefits and progress toward long-term sustainability goals.
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