No plans for footpath outside Kildare club's ground
Photo: Piaras Ó Mídheach/Sportsfile
KILDARE County Council has said that there are currently no plans or funding in place to construct a footpath adjacent from Ellistown GAA despite being a hub of the community.
The motion sought a commitment from the council to provide a footpath along the road adjoining the GAA grounds, which also serves a local playground and crèche.
Cllr Brian O’Loughlin highlighted safety concerns in the area, noting that the club has identified existing hedging as an obstruction to sightlines for both pedestrians and motorists at a recent meeting of Kildare Newbridge Municipal Distirct.
Ellistown GAA has proposed the removal of the hedging in the interest of improving visibility and overall safety along the busy stretch of road.
In response, the municipal district office stated that there are no plans or funding in place to construct a footpath at the location.
Cllr O’Loughlin was “disappointed” with the council’s response.
“The council seems to underestimate the importance of Ellistown GAA. It covers a big area, with a very active playground and crèche.
“The markings on the road are not sufficient. It’s a very busy spot, and drivers on the road have very little visibility.”
The Fianna Fáil representative reminded the council that the stretch of road only amounts to 60 metres in distance.
“It’s not a huge ask,” he said.
For context on the importance of the issue for local residents, cllr O’Loughlin said: “There’s no shop, church or pub there. The town is Ellistown GAA.”
