Blackrock and Douglas in line for public bike scheme expansion

The National Transport Authority (NTA) has confirmed that Blackrock will remain part of future plans for the expansion of Cork’s public bike scheme.

The stop-on, stop-off initiative, first introduced across Cork city in 2014, was completed in March 2015 with 330 bikes available for public use from 31 stations.

While hire and drop-off locations span the city from Kent Station to Morrison’s Island, the Cork city South East ward was notably not included in the scheme until 2025, when the number of stations in Cork increased to 36, with one developed at the Marina Promenade.

A spokesperson for the NTA confirmed this week that the tender process for the next phase of the scheme has already commenced, with additional locations across the Cork city South East ward earmarked for development.

“The tender process is underway, with a decision currently expected by the end of the year, with a view to mobilising within the existing operational areas in 2027, and expansion beyond that over the following period,” 

the spokesperson said.

“Blackrock and Douglas are expected to be a part of a future expansion of the scheme in due course”.

Speaking to The Echo, Labour Party councillor for the Cork city South East ward, Peter Horgan, who is chair of Cork City Council’s Transport Committee, said the expansion of the scheme into the south-east of the city “cannot come soon enough”, and must become “a top priority”.

“The connection between Douglas and Blackrock is absolutely vital and it’s something people have been crying out for,” said Mr Horgan

“It would create a triangulation impact taking in Ballintemple, Blackrock Village, Harty’s Quay and would lend further credence to expanding out the cycle projects in those areas – projects like the Blackrock Line Phase 2 expansion, the Rochestown Cycle Scheme, the Maryborough Woods Cycle Scheme and the connectivity for Ballybrack.

“The bike scheme has been a real success in the city centre and there’s no reason communities like Douglas and Blackrock should be left waiting any longer.

“These are two of the fastest growing areas of the city, but we still don’t have enough safe, reliable alternatives to the car for short everyday journeys,” 

he added.

“If we’re serious about reducing traffic and improving connectivity across the city, then expanding the public bike scheme into suburban Cork has to be part of that plan. Mixing our modes must be our watchword.”