This paper extends the methodology from the Department of Transport’s 2023 report on the Economic Cost of Congestion in the Greater Dublin Area to three regional cities: Cork, Galway, and Waterford. Under the Core Growth Scenario (2016 prices), congestion costs in 2022 were estimated at €57.5m for Cork, €35.3m for Galway, and €5.8m for Waterford. By 2040, these are projected to rise to €97.2m, €106.9m, and €22.4m respectively. Per capita, Galway is expected to face the highest congestion cost at €891, while Waterford will see the lowest at €277.

While planned transport strategies will help reduce congestion, they are insufficient to fully counteract increases driven by population and economic growth. An Alternative Future Scenario, incorporating behavioural changes like increased remote work, shows potential reductions in congestion costs of 15–34% in 2022 and 21–31% in 2040.

Goods vehicles are projected to bear a growing share of congestion costs, reflecting increased economic activity. Time-of-day analysis reveals shifting congestion patterns, particularly a midday peak in Galway by 2030. Overall, the findings highlight the need for sustained investment in sustainable transport, including public transport infrastructure and behavioural change, to manage congestion and support climate policy goals in Ireland’s regional cities.

The full report can be found here:The Economic Cost of Congestion in the Regional Cities 2022-2040