DCC Explores Orbital Bus Link Between the Liberties, Rialto and Inchicore
Dublin City Council has opened a consultation on a proposed orbital bus route that would link the Liberties with Rialto and Inchicore, aiming to strengthen cross-city connections outside the radial routes into the city centre.
The proposal forms part of wider efforts to expand orbital and local services across Dublin under the ongoing BusConnects network redesign. The council says the new orbital route would prioritise reliable local links for short and medium journeys, better connect neighbourhood services and reduce the need for passengers to travel into the city centre to change buses.
Community groups and elected representatives in Inchicore and surrounding neighbourhoods have raised concerns in recent months about local bus changes and the need for frequent, direct connections to Thomas Street and the Liberties, arguing that some redesigns have reduced direct access between historically linked communities. Campaigners say improved frequencies and more direct services are needed for everyday journeys to schools, shops and workplaces.
The council has published a route outline and timetable options as part of the consultation material and is inviting residents, businesses and commuters to submit feedback. Responses will be used to refine route alignment, stop locations and proposed service frequencies before any final decision is taken.
Submissions on the orbital route must be received by the end of September 2025. The council urges residents likely to use the service to comment on proposed stops, accessibility, interchange options and peak-time frequency so planners can balance local needs with network performance.
Local stakeholders say the route could deliver practical benefits if it provides frequent, reliable services and good interchange with existing radial and spine routes, while critics warn that reduced frequencies or indirect alignments would undermine the route’s usefulness for everyday travel between the Liberties, Rialto and Inchicore.
