A surprising move.
Many on social media have expressed their disappointment as the Office of Public Works announced that Phoenix Park would once again open all of its perimeter gates bar one to cars.
The move seems to suggestion that OPW has reversed its intention to "curb traffic volumes" and "maintaining safe, quiet, open spaces for pedestrians and cyclists to enjoy."
Just last month, OPW commissioner John McMahon said the park was "determined to ensure that the park is a safe, quiet, green space for our visitors, where flora and fauna thrives and where visitors’ health and wellbeing can be enhanced through experiencing the natural environment in the park.
"With this in mind, reducing the volume of ‘through-traffic’ is critical and maintaining safe, quiet, open spaces for pedestrians and cyclists to enjoy is a key priority for OPW."
In a statement issued on Thursday evening, the OPW announced that the park would once again open all of its working gates to traffic:
"The Office of Public Works (OPW) today announced the reopening of all of the perimeter gates to the Phoenix Park, with the exception of Knockmaroon Gate, with effect from Friday 10 July 2020. Works are presently being carried out on Knockmaroon Gate and it will reopen once these works are completed.
"The OPW is encouraging all drivers using the Park to be mindful of the revised parking restrictions and to be respectful to all pedestrians and cyclists. These measures will be kept under review by OPW, An Garda Síochána and other key stakeholders."
Green Party TD Nease Hourigan voiced concerns on Twitter, saying: "
I can only assume some kind of crossed wires here given the assurances recently given by the @opwireland to elected officials in the area to prioritise air quality, green space and safe usage within the park rather than using it as a heavily trafficed, roadway into the city."
