Dublin Marathon organisers confirm they are considering change of route for next year’s event

The organisers of Dublin Marathon are seeking ‘viable’ options for next year’s route following criticism of its impact on public transport.

The organisers and Dublin City Council have said next year’s marathon would “preferably” go ahead within the city centre. The marathon has historically started at Fitzwilliam Square and finished at Merrion Square.

The National Transport Authority (NTA) expressed concern after this year’s event over the “disproportionate adverse impact” the race has on public transport services.

Suggestions that the event be moved so that it starts and finishes outside Dublin city centre were addressed in a joint statement from Dublin City Council and the organisers of the Dublin Marathon.

“Dublin City Council and the organisers of the Dublin Marathon have for many years worked in partnership together to deliver this important event to the city, in a safe and sustainable manner,” it said.

“The event, and the associated required infrastructure, have grown incrementally over time as have the number of runners applying to take part in the event each year.”

The NTA highlighted the length of road closures required to set up and maintain the start/finish area in Merrion Square North as a particular concern to to the disruption caused to public transport in the area. The use of Merrion Square North is being reconsidered for future Dublin Marathons.

Today’s joint statement said Dublin City Council and the organisers “attempt to ensure the best locations are used, that present the best experience both for participants, attendees and spectators, while ensuring that disruption to the day to day running of the city is minimised where possible.

“With this in mind, Dublin City Council and the organisers of Dublin Marathon are working together to consider viable options for next year’s event, preferably within the city-centre, that will showcase the city and continue to provide the best experience for all those involved with the Dublin Marathon.”

Discussions between Dublin City Council and the organisers of the Dublin Marathon are underway with a view to “reaching a positive solution” to be announced in the first quarter of 2024.

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