Mayo town ranked number one in rural public transport accessibility

A MAYO town has been ranked number one in the Sustainable Mobility Index for 2024, which monitors rural transport progress in Ireland.

The Western Development Commission (WDC) published the Sustainable Mobility Index (SMI) 2024 with Westport now ranked number one, with a score of 200 out of 300, climbing three places from SMI 2022.

The SMI is 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.

Shannon in Co Clare is ranked second while Oranmore, Co Galway, rises five places to number with greater use of public transport links to Galway city improving commuting patterns.

The Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan has played a key role in improving access to employment, education, and healthcare hubs, with several towns climbing the rankings as a result. Scores for Ballyhaunis, Collooney, Donegal Town, and Ballymote have all benefited from expanded public transport services, reinforcing the importance of continued investment in rural mobility infrastructure.

Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht Dara Calleary, thanked the WDC for this valuable report.

“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 confirms that we are moving in the right direction,” the Ballina-based TD said.

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, the WDC state that this does not indicate a decline in services or infrastructure. Instead, they say 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. Towns with robust economic activity—such as Westport, Shannon, and Oranmore—tend to score higher, underlining the importance of aligning transport investment with economic development strategies.

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.