McCourt wants wide footpath removed to make loading bay

Cllr Julie McCourt has called for the removal of a wide section of footpath on Grove Street, opposite the Newbury Hotel side entrance, to make way for a new loading bay and "no parking" signage during working hours.

She said the existing loading bay on the street is often either full or blocked by cars, forcing delivery vans and lorries to park on the opposite footpath, which frequently leads to traffic obstruction.

“I walk that route and I also drive it,” she told the Mullingar Kinnegad Municipal District meeting. “That particular arc of footpath… very seldom I’ve seen pedestrians using it.”

She said that even a small loading bay or inset could make a difference, adding that current restrictions are not being enforced.

In response, the council said a loading bay had recently been installed along the street and that the wide path mentioned was necessary to maintain a safe space for pedestrians.

Blackhall

At the same meeting, Cllr Julie McCourt requested that curbing on the footpath near the private car park behind the Chambers Bar be removed to provide level access for wheelchair users exiting the higher car park at Blackhall via the ramp.

The council said the request will be examined as part of future estimates.

Cllr McCourt noted the area is due for redevelopment under plans for the new sports complex and said she was happy for the matter to be considered at that stage.