Safety works begin in Tipperary village after long campaign to secure funding
A long-awaited safety project in a busy Tipperary village has commenced, aiming to improve safety for schoolchildren walking to school.
Works on the footpath in the village of Knockavilla have gotten under way, following repeated calls and attempts to secure funding for the project.
Fine Gael councillor Declan Burgess has welcomed the commencement of works, saying that they will make a real difference to residents in the village.
"I’m delighted to confirm that works are now underway on these vital footpath upgrades, which will make a real difference for pedestrians, particularly school children and parishioners, along this busy stretch,” Cllr Burgess said.
The stretch of the footpath from the Church to the school will be upgraded, but Cllr Burgess stressed that further works are needed within the village.
The works come after a sustained effort to secure funding for the project, after numerous representations to the Tipperary-Cahir-Cashel Municipal District.
"“It’s great to see the machinery on site and progress being made. This is an important step in the wider regeneration and safety plan for Knockavilla,” he said.
"The overall Knockavilla regeneration scheme has unfortunately not yet received national programme funding. I will continue to press Tipperary County Council to make a strong funding application to Government for safety upgrades at the school, along the R-505-6, and on the Bog Road (L-5225-0),” the Fine Gael councillor added.
Road improvements in the village are already on Tipperary County Council’s work programme, and are scheduled for completion in 2027.
"I will keep Knockavilla’s needs firmly on the agenda until all planned safety and improvement works are delivered,” Cllr Burgess added.