The advance of the pimple! CIE’s new weapon?

In recent days I have noticed a new trend in the streetscape. Dublin Bus seem to be setting out dedicated bus stops, at least in some locations.

Let me explain.
Until recently a bus stop was just that. A pole, easily moved if need be. Some, but by no means many, got advertising shelters / bus shelters in the more recent past.

Now we seem to be part way through a programme of dedicated, and really permanent bus stops.

these have

– an apparent standard curb height, added on
– 2 lines of inset bricks to mark the stop
– a collection of cement pimples (or dimples) at curbside. The purpose of these, with new bus wheelchair ramps presumably seeking level ground, is much more obscure.

Perhaps some post modernist tribute to Shirley Temple, perhaps? Foot massage for the enraged?

These new style stops can be seen in Ranelagh, near the Burlington etc and they seem to be spreading.

Now for the life of me I really cannot see much purpose to this. It must cost a far amount in money to do this and certainly a good deal in disruption to produce these. The case for perpetual, fixed bus stops seems to allow little latitude for change, roadworks etc.

All in all, the phrase “waste of money” comes to mind.