No funds available for proposed pedestrian crossing in Greystones
The Wicklow PeopleThe National Transport Authority has indicated it is not currently able to fund the installation of a pedestrian crossing on the Kindlestown Lower Road (R761) in Greystones.
District councillors in Greystones were informed of the update during their October monthly meeting.
Cllr Stephen Stokes had brought forward a motion on the issue at a previous meeting over the summer, having been contacted by residents in the area who believe that a safe, designated pedestrian crossing is long overdue.
Wicklow County Council had installed Safe Routes to School measures behind St. Kevin’s National School, which re-opened the back gate into St. Kevin's NS and incorporated a crossing point.
This was designed to make it easier and safer for children and families to walk or cycle to school.
Cllr Stokes praised the council and the Safe Routes to School programme for delivering tangible improvements that are already benefiting the community.
The second part of the motion called for an additional pedestrian crossing to be installed on Kindlestown Lower Road, in the vicinity of Applewood Heights and Church Lane, Greystones.
Cllr Stokes stressed that this location is particularly hazardous, with large numbers of pedestrians forced to navigate a busy road that carries significant volumes of traffic, especially during school run hours and evening commutes.
Cllr Stokes noted that the call for a crossing is not new. He has also raised the matter at the Transport Strategic Policy Committee level in Wicklow County Council.
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In response, district engineer Graham Cullen said the estimated costs for the works would be in the region of €30,000 and the transport body is not able to provide financial support at this time but that he will engage with council staff to see what other options may be available and whether the project would be viable for other funding streams.
Cllr Stokes noted that the road forms an important connection between residential areas, schools, local amenities, and the wider town centre.
“Installing a pedestrian crossing on Kindlestown Lower Road would give peace of mind to parents, older residents, and anyone who currently feels unsafe when crossing at this location. It is a common-sense solution that will have a real impact on daily life.”
Cllr Stephen Stokes confirmed he will continue to lobby Wicklow County Council to prioritise this project, working with council engineers and fellow councillors in the Greystones Municipal District.