Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council has made workplace cycling history, earning European Gold certification across all six categories of the Cycle Friendly Employer programme. The achievement places the council at the forefront of sustainable transport and active travel in Ireland.
The milestone is significant for Dublin news because DLR is the first workplace in Ireland to secure the highest European rating in every assessment category. It also strengthens the council’s reputation for supporting greener commuting, staff wellbeing and practical climate action.
DLR sets new benchmark for workplace cycling
The Cycle Friendly Employer programme assesses how effectively organisations make cycling a safe, convenient and attractive option for employees. DLR first became the country’s first local authority to achieve Gold certification in 2023. Its latest result shows that the council has continued to improve its facilities, infrastructure and cycling culture.
At County Hall, staff can access a broad range of cycling amenities, including:
- Secure bicycle parking
- Charging points for electric bikes
- Dedicated cargo bike spaces
- Bike maintenance and washing stations
- Showers, changing rooms and lockers
- A drying room for wet clothing and equipment
These measures are designed to remove common barriers faced by people who cycle to work. They also support employees who use bicycles for all or part of their daily journey, helping to make active travel a realistic alternative to car-dependent commuting.
Why the award matters for sustainable travel
DLR’s certification arrives as Mobility Week concludes, placing renewed attention on healthier and lower-carbon ways to travel. Investment in secure facilities and staff support can encourage more people to cycle while reducing pressure on roads and limiting transport emissions.
The council’s approach links environmental responsibility with employee health and workplace accessibility. By providing showers, drying facilities, maintenance areas and e-bike charging, DLR is supporting different cycling needs rather than relying on a single solution.
A model for organisations across Ireland
The achievement may encourage other public bodies and employers to review their own commuting policies. Although workplace cycling requires suitable infrastructure, it also depends on positive workplace culture, clear support and convenient facilities.
For businesses following Dublin business and sustainability developments, the award demonstrates how investment in employee amenities can contribute to wider climate goals while improving the everyday commuting experience.
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DLR says it intends to build on the recognition by continuing to support greener, healthier and more sustainable travel choices for staff and visitors. The European Gold result underlines how consistent investment can turn cycling from an occasional option into a practical part of workplace life.
Key takeaway: DLR County Council has become the first Irish workplace to achieve European Gold across all six Cycle Friendly Employer categories, setting a national example for active travel and sustainable workplace design.
