Push for safer walking and cycling link between estates in Meath
A local councillor has called for a safe and accessible pathway connecting two housing estates in Meath.
At the September meeting of the Laytown-Bettystown Municipal District, Fine Gael Councillor Sharon Tolan put forward a motion calling for a connection between the Alverno and Beach Grove housing estates in Laytown.
The initiative aims to improve walking and cycling access for residents and enhance overall connectivity between the two estates.
The motion received strong support from fellow district councillors.
Cllr Tolan said: “Local residents have been using this route for years, and it is vital that we now move forward to make it safer and more accessible for everyone, especially parents and grandparents pushing buggies or wheelchair users.”
According to the councillor, the proposal aligns with Meath County Council’s policy objective MOV OBJ 29, which focuses on implementing pedestrian permeability schemes, and is supported by the recommendations of the Laytown and Bettystown Walking and Cycling Study Review (October 2021).
Following the motion’s approval, Meath County Council’s Active Travel Section will seek funding from the National Transport Authority (NTA) to improve the link.
Meanwhile, the Municipal District Engineer is engaging with local residents to introduce short-term measures to keep the route safe and usable.
“The key to the success of projects like this is the continued support and cooperation of residents, particularly those living close to the proposed link. I want to thank everyone who has engaged with me so far and assure you that your views will remain central as this project moves forward,” Cllr Tolan said.
“This is about making our communities more connected, more walkable, and safer for our families. I will continue to work with residents, the Council, and the NTA to ensure this much-needed link is delivered.”