Call for extension of Cork bus service to cater for demand

Cork city councillor Margaret McDonnell has highlighted ongoing difficulties faced by residents in Sallybrook due to inadequate bus capacity on existing services, calling for the 214 route to be extended.

The Glanmire area is served by Bus Éireann routes 214 and 245. The 214 operates in Riverstown and Glanmire villages, while the 245 connects Clonmel to Cork via Sallybrook.

However, Ms McDonnell said that as the 245 is a provincial service, it is frequently at full capacity before reaching Sallybrook.

“This leaves local commuters stranded at bus stops such as The Hermitage and opposite Grandon’s when no seats are available.

“While the 214 service helps to alleviate pressure for passengers boarding in Riverstown and Glanmire Village, Sallybrook residents remain at a disadvantage.”

Speaking to The Echo, Ms McDonnell, a Fianna Fáil councillor for the North East ward, called for the 214 city service to be extended to Sallybrook, particularly in light of recent and ongoing housing developments.

“Large estates such as Glashaboy Woods and Richmond Rise, alongside established communities in Elmgrove, Barrymore, and Millbrook, are all now within the city boundary. Yet many residents have no access to a reliable city bus service,” she said. “With more families moving into the area, and growing demand for sustainable travel options, it is vital that the 214 be extended to serve Sallybrook.”

A Bus Éireann spokesperson said there are approximately 21 departures hourly from Cork and 22 from Fermoy, Monday to Friday, on Route 245, with this frequency increased to 30 minutes at peak travel times, adding that it is a “very popular route and in order to meet demand we also allocate double-deck coaches”.

“In conjunction with the NTA, Route 214 was reviewed earlier in the year in order to improve the service. In addition, the Route 31, Cork/Glanmire/Knockraha service, was introduced,” they said.