Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council has made history in Dublin news by becoming the first workplace in Ireland to achieve European Gold certification across every category of the Cycle Friendly Employer programme. The recognition highlights a major commitment to sustainable transport, staff wellbeing and safer everyday cycling.
The announcement, dated 22 September 2026, comes as Mobility Week concludes and places DLR at the forefront of active travel in Ireland. Its achievement also strengthens the council’s role in shaping a greener future for Dublin commuters and public-sector workplaces.
Dublin Council sets new benchmark for workplace cycling
The Cycle Friendly Employer programme assesses how effectively organisations support cycling through facilities, infrastructure and workplace culture. DLR first became the country’s leading local authority in this area after receiving Gold certification in 2023. It has now advanced further by achieving the highest European rating in all six assessment categories.
This result reflects continued investment rather than a single initiative. The council has worked to make cycling a practical and attractive option for employees, helping reduce barriers that can discourage people from commuting by bike.
Facilities available at County Hall
County Hall provides a broad range of amenities designed to support different types of cyclists and daily travel needs, including:
- Secure bicycle parking
- Dedicated e-bike charging bays
- Spaces for cargo bikes
- Bike maintenance and washing stations
- Showers and changing areas
- Personal lockers
- A drying room for wet clothing and equipment
These features are intended to make cycling more convenient throughout the year, including for staff travelling longer distances or using electric and cargo bikes.
What the award means for Dublin’s sustainable transport plans
DLR’s certification demonstrates how workplace design and organisational culture can support wider climate and mobility goals. By providing secure infrastructure and practical facilities, employers can help make active travel a realistic alternative to car-based commuting.
The initiative also connects environmental action with employee health. Regular cycling can support physical activity, while reliable workplace amenities make it easier for staff to incorporate movement into their daily routine. For Dublin business and public-sector organisations, the award offers a model for improving both sustainability and workplace experience.
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DLR plans to build on its progress
The council said it intends to continue encouraging greener, healthier and more sustainable travel choices for employees and visitors. The Gold certification is therefore not presented as an endpoint, but as part of a longer-term effort to support active travel across Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown.
As more workplaces consider practical responses to climate change, DLR’s approach shows that cycling facilities can be integrated into everyday organisational planning. Its achievement may encourage other employers throughout Ireland to assess how their buildings, policies and workplace culture can better support cyclists.
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Key takeaway
DLR’s European Gold result marks a significant milestone in Dublin news and sustainable workplace development. By combining secure infrastructure, practical amenities and a positive cycling culture, Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council has created a strong example of how employers can support cleaner transport and healthier commuting.
