At a recent Fingal Council
Meeting local Labour Councillor Peter Coyle called for a footpath improvement
programme be drawn up for Malahide Village, including present damaged sections
in New Street, The Mall, and Strand Street, as well as the rising paving around
the trees in the village. Peter pointed out that the Council could face major
compensation claims if the problems with the paths were not addressed. The
Council carried out some pilot work in relation to the problem of the rising
paving associated with roots of tree. This pilot work was successful, but the
Council did not continue the work in other problem locations on New Street and
Church Street. Billy McClean, Senior Executive Engineer, told the meeting that
the special red tarmacadam used at the base of the trees is not readily
available, is costly and will require a unique order to fulfil the project and
the high standard needed for Tidy Towns.
Cllr Peter Coyle highlighted
the poor state of the footpath in other sections, including The Mall, near the
upgraded Malahide Library, as well as the bottom of New Street and Strand
Street. Billy Mc Clean responded by stating that these will be considered for
upgrade in the 2009 Programme of Works. In relation to Strand Street the Water
Services Department are planning major drainage works in that area, and
footpath upgrade there will be brought up to standard during those works.
Cllr Peter Coyle pointed out
that there is a perception that Malahide Village gets priority treatment over
other areas, but the reality is that walking the footpaths in the village can
be more treacherous than anywhere in the electoral area. He looks forward to
funding being provided in the 2009 Programme of Works to carry out the
much-needed upgrade.