Louth park ‘absolutely destroyed’ by scooters and e-bikes, council told

By Olivia Ryan, The Drogheda Independent

Scooters and e-bikes are causing damage in a local park where they are “absolutely destroying green areas”, according to a local councillor.

Speaking at the January meeting of Louth County Council, Cllr. Ciaran Fisher asked if the local authority were aware of ongoing damage to green space in Aisling Park, Cox’s Demesne.

"It seems to be a daily thing now, especially since Christmas.”

Cllr. Fisher called for bylaws to be updated, as scramblers may have been previously included, but e-bikes and scooters should be added.

"We should update the Parks Bylaws to state that we don’t allow mechanically propelled vehicles.”

He added that people are “scared” going into the park when this activity is going on.

"I know this might be a matter for the gardai, but we own the park, so day to day management and potential damage is on us.”

He called for the council to look at “physical deterrents” such as low fences, or other measures which would prevent these vehicles getting access to the park.

"The place is getting absolutely destroyed, and people are not using it because the scramblers are out,” he added.

Director of Service, David Hanratty, told the meeting that the council would assess Aisling Park.

"I will ask the operations team to look at it and see what the issues are, and what physical barriers may be applicable.”

He said the bylaws might not have reference to the more modern vehicles such as electric bikes and scooters.