Traffic corridor between two Wicklow estates could open
The Wicklow PeopleDistrict councillors in Greystones were told by district officials during their September monthly meeting about the prospect of opening vehicular access between Eden Gate and Archers Wood, two adjacent estates in Delgany.
Wicklow County Council is considering allowing cars to travel through the area, by opening a road via Eden Gate and Archers Wood that would create a through road connecting these two highly residential areas.
It is also intended to remove the existing plastic speed ramps as these are not allowed on public roads. In advance of either intervention a traffic survey will be carried out to draw comparisons to traffic volumes and speeds.
Cllr Lourda Scott met with residents over the summer about their concerns on the plans to open the access between the two estates, and convened a meeting between them and the engineer, who gave a commitment that a road safety audit will be carried out in Archers Wood prior to any decision being made.
“There is already an issue with road safety on the Archers Wood side before any opening happens and this needs to be addressed regardless of any opening.”
The planning section have confirmed that there is no condition on the Archers Wood planning permission to open the road, however there is a condition to make the road connection which has been done by the developer.
The planning section has requested the developer to submit the required audits of the constructed development, with council officials awaiting receipt of those audits before considering next steps.
Concerns have been raised over the move with many believing this through road would be in contradiction to Wicklow County Council’s precedent.
In December 2021, the local authority closed the top and western entrance to Applewood Heights in Greystones. This road was meant to be closed temporarily for six months.
However, the road remains closed to this day.
Former councillor Kathleen Kelleher believes the plans should not be allowed to proceed.
“If Applewood Heights is not allowed through traffic, neither should Eden Gate nor Archers Wood. This potential road opening should not even be a matter for discussion.
“Any plans for the future should be the design consideration of cycle, pedestrian and mobility access only.”
Ms Kelleher has called on the council to instead consider installing a public space between the two estates.
“This could be a public space with lighting and seating, highlighting biodiversity.”
“A public place for residents of both estates to enjoy, instead of traffic noise, dangerous traffic levels and exhaust fumes.”