The Western Development Commission (WDC) has today published the Sustainable Mobility Index (SMI) 2024, the most comprehensive assessment and only index of its kind, of rural transport progress in Ireland.
Covering 40 rural towns across the Western Region, the report demonstrates significant improvements in public transport accessibility and connectivity, while also identifying areas for further investment, particularly in active travel infrastructure, affordability, and connectivity.
Five Clare towns were assessed, with Shannon again emerging as a standout performer—ranking 2nd out of 40 towns nationwide.
Shannon maintains its place near the top of the Index, reflecting consistent investment in transport accessibility. It tops the national rankings for Access to Services and Social Facilities, and performs exceptionally in Employment and Economic Opportunities (8th) and Low Carbon Transition (3rd).
Newmarket-on-Fergus and Sixmilebridge also performed well, while Killaloe makes its first appearance due to population growth. Kilrush, despite dropping slightly in rank, remains a critical focus for future development.
Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht Dara Calleary, thanked the WDC for this valuable report stating “The Programme for Government sets out this government’s commitment to balanced regional development, addressing infrastructural deficits and strengthening regional connectivity. The WDC’s Sustainable Mobility Index helps us track progress and guide future policy. This year’s index confirm that we are moving in the right direction”.
Allan Mulrooney, CEO of the WDC, welcomed the progress in the region; “This year’s Sustainable Mobility Index highlights just how much progress has been made in strengthening rural transport. It’s encouraging to see that targeted investment is making a difference—towns with enhanced sustainable transport infrastructure are climbing the rankings but it is essential that this investment is continued to ensure all our rural towns are well-connected and sustainable.”
While some towns have dropped in the rankings since SMI 2022, this does not indicate a decline in services or infrastructure. Instead, it reflects that other towns have improved at a faster pace, benefitting from targeted policy interventions and expanded services. With the emphasis on attracting more people to live in rural towns, improving public transport options and making the towns more active travel friendly will continue to be essential areas for investment in future.
Dr. Helen McHenry, Policy Analyst at the WDC and lead author of the report, emphasised the importance of sustained investment; “The progress highlighted in this year’s Index is encouraging, demonstrating that investment in rural transport is delivering real benefits. More people now have access to public transport, and towns that have received targeted improvements are seeing clear gains. While challenges remain, particularly in affordability and active travel infrastructure, this report shows that where the investments are made, and services improved, the benefits are evident. Continued investment will ensure that even more rural communities can experience these benefits in the years ahead.”
The report also highlights the connection between strong employment hubs and sustainable transport rankings.
As the only rural town mobility index of its kind, the WDC’s SMI 2024 provides a critical evidence base for policymakers, local authorities, and transport providers. By tracking progress over time, the Index highlights both successes and areas that require attention, helping to shape future investment and policy decisions.
For more information and to access the full report, and download county and town infographics click here…
Key Findings from the Sustainable Mobility Index 2024
- Westport is now ranked No.1, with a score of 200 out of 300, climbing three places from SMI 2022.
- Oranmore has moved up five places to No.3, reflecting stronger transport links to Galway.
- Claremorris is now ranked 5th, up four places from SMI 2022.
- Shannon dropped one place to 2nd in the rankings.
- Ballyhaunis, Collooney, Donegal Town, and Ballymote have improved their rankings due to public transport service enhancements.
- Towns with a high employment-to-population ratio tend to score better.
- Public transport use tends to be lower and car ownership is higher in high-income towns.
- The cost of public transport varies across rural areas.
- Investment in public transport services has improved access to hospitals and universities.
- Towns with improved cycling and pedestrian infrastructure have seen higher mobility scores.
- Some towns still lack cycle lanes, and good pedestrian facilities which encourage active travel.
- Five additional towns were included in SMI 2024 due to population increases shown in Census 2022.
- Data on cycling infrastructure, walkability, and accessibility remains inconsistent.
- Infrastructure improvements for those with disabilities remain a priority.
