‘It’s a waste of money’ – Active travel scheme in Meath sparks debate over cycle lanes
A proposed active travel scheme in Meath has sparked controversy at a recent council meeting, with councillors questioning the need for more cycle lanes.
At the October meeting of the Ratoath Municipal District, councillors were presented with the Part 8 Planning Application for the Dunboyne to Clonee Active Travel Links Scheme, which proposes enhanced cycling and walking infrastructure along the route.
Independent Councillor Nick Killian expressed strong concerns about the effectiveness of existing cycle lanes.
“Cycle lanes are not being used. We are spending money left, right and centre on cycle lanes and they are not being used,” he said.
He noted that during visits to Ashbourne, he rarely sees cyclists on the lanes there, and in Ratoath, only the lane along the outer relief road appears to be used.
Cllr Killian added that the low uptake among schoolchildren, despite 1,000 students attending Ratoath schools.
“The average number of bikes is around 40 or 50 a day. We’re trying to educate the kids, and we’re wasting space with another two lanes in Clonee. It’s a waste of money,” he said.
He added that councillors were elected to represent public opinion and claimed, “the people don’t want cycle lanes.”
The proposed scheme, primarily in Clonee, includes junction upgrades aimed at improving pedestrian movement and enhancing the public realm.
One of the routes would run from Reask Road along Station Road, through Loughsallagh, the main street of Clonee, and up to the Fingal border. The plan includes a two-way cycle track, pedestrian facilities, and two raised tables to slow traffic in response to residents’ complaints.
Meanwhile, Cllr Brian Fitzgerald defended the timing of the plan, noting that a new road from the business park across Clonee is planned and will be constructed before housing developments on Connaughton’s land and Carroll Estates.
He said that it is “easier” to integrate cycle and pedestrian lanes at this stage rather than “disrupting the town later.”
Concerns over car parking were also raised. Cllr Gerry O’Connor questioned the likely usage of cycleways in Clonee and said that the 420 existing car parking spaces are primarily private, located at Lidl, Aldi, and behind local businesses.
He added that the loss of parking could negatively impact local businesses.
The district Cathaoirleach, Cllr Fitzgerald clarified at the end of the presentation that the plan has not yet been approved by the municipal district members and they were only letting it be put on public display so residents can have their say.