Area Based Transport Assessments as a means for assessing transport demand are described at paragraphs 4.152 – 6 of the draft CDP.  A search on-line shows that the methodology for ABTAs includes assessment of the needs of pedestrians, cyclists and public transport.  For developments beside waterways and watercourses in the city the needs of water users need to be assessed also, including the draft ABTA prepared for City Docks and Tivoli (Chapter 10).

The needs of water users should be considered in these two draft ABTA before they are finalised, and systematically incorporated into all city ABTA and similar infrastructure project planning in the future.  Resources for public infrastructure projects are scarce and meeting the needs of as many potential user groups as possible important.  In general in our experience, submissions in response to Part 8 Planning Notices are far too late a stage to attempt to influence plans for waterside infrastructure.

A properly functioning slipway needs landside provision for trailer access with swinging space and parking.  Small boat users on day trips need access to public transport and may need parking space.  The development of the river and harbour for Blueways will depend on such provision.

The north side of the river is poorly served for safe access to the river, and there may be opportunities to recommission the Castleview Terrace slipway and/or the graving dock on the Lower Glanmire Road.  Provision for water access should be included at the latter.  The marina/water inlet indicated in the 3D concept plan for Tivoli at Figure 10.31 should include slipway access to the water.

Slipways can be incorporated into bridge design and should be considered adjacent to one or more of the three bridges proposed in the Docklands.  The bridge across the Ria de Cubas on the C141 into Santander incorporates slipways at either side, at Sociedad Deportiva de Remo Pedrena and the Embarcadero del Rey (see screenshots in document attached).