Galway Metropolitan Area Transport Strategy (GMATS)
Overview
The Galway Metropolitan Area Transport Strategy (GMATS) is a long term strategic transport framework that will guide transport development across Galway City and the wider metropolitan area over the next 20 years. It is being developed jointly by the National Transport Authority (NTA), Galway City Council and Galway County Council, in collaboration with Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) and the Northern and Western Regional Assembly.
GMATS will replace the Galway Transport Strategy (GTS), adopted in 2016, and will provide an updated transport vision to support sustainable growth, improved connectivity and enhanced quality of life across the region. The strategy brings together transport infrastructure, public transport services, active travel measures and traffic management initiatives to create a more integrated and sustainable transport network for Galway.
Objectives
GMATS aims to:
- Promote sustainable travel by reducing reliance on private cars and encouraging greater use of walking, cycling and public transport.
- Develop an integrated public transport network, including enhanced bus services and the assessment of potential light rail options, to improve connectivity across the metropolitan area.
- Enhance active travel infrastructure through the delivery of safer, more attractive and accessible walking and cycling routes.
- Improve accessibility and connectivity throughout Galway City and its surrounding metropolitan area.
- Implement demand management measures to reduce congestion and improve traffic flow.
- Support regional growth and sustainable urban development in line with the National Planning Framework (NPF) and the Regional Spatial and Economic Strategy (RSES).
- Deliver transport projects in a phased and coordinated manner to maximise benefits for communities, businesses and visitors.
Supporting Galway’s Future Growth
The strategy recognises that Galway’s continued growth requires a significant shift towards sustainable and integrated transport. By improving public transport, expanding active travel networks and introducing measures to manage demand, GMATS aims to ensure people can move efficiently throughout the city and metropolitan area.
Through a coordinated approach to transport investment and planning, the strategy seeks to support economic growth, reduce car dependency, improve environmental sustainability and enhance the overall quality of life for those living, working and travelling in Galway.
Galway Transport strategy | Galway City Council
Update 1 July 2026: It is anticipated that a new draft Galway Metropolitan Area Transportation Strategy (GMATS) will go to public consultation early next year, with a finalised Strategy in place in 2027.