Concern over 10-metre drop near Kildare playground
A local councillor has expressed concerns over a 10-metre drop which is located near a County Kildare playground.
Fine Gael Cllr Kevin Duffy informed Kildare County Council (KCC) about the drop at the latest Kildare-Newbridge Municipal District meeting, which took place on Wednesday, May 20 last.
Within the first few minutes of the meeting, Cllr Duffy motioned for KCC install a small section of fencing on the low bridge wall adjacent to the Monasterevin playground, ‘given the 10-metre drop and the safety concerns’.
His motion was seconded by his party colleague, Cllr Tracey O’Dwyer.
In response to Cllr Duffy’s motion, KCC said via the report it presented at the meeting: “KCC notes the concerns raised in relation to the bridge parapet adjacent to Monasterevin Playground.
“This structure forms part of the Grand Canal infrastructure, which is under the ownership and management of Waterways Ireland.”
KCC further said: “Responsibility for the inspection, maintenance, and any alteration of canal structures, including bridge parapets, rests with Waterways Ireland.
“The Council will refer the matter to Waterways Ireland for their consideration, having regard to the issues raised.”
KCC concluded by adding: “Any proposals for intervention at this location would be subject to their assessment, statutory remit and approval processes.”
Speaking further on his motion to the Leinster Leader, Cllr Duffy explained that, due to low height of the bridge wall, children can climb on top of it and walk on it.
“The height from the footpath is only 1 or 2 metres, but the drop on the back side is significant,” he added.
Cllr Duffy also asserted that he would be following up the matter with Waterways Ireland.
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