Minutes of Ennis Municipal District Meeting September 2024

Minutes of Ennis Municipal District Meeting September 2024

Present:

Councillors attending:

Councillor C. Colleran-Molloy (Cathaoirleach)

Councillor M. Howard (Leas-Cathaoirleach)

Councillor P. Murphy

Councillor P. Daly

Councillor T. O’Callaghan

Councillor T. Guilfoyle

Councillor A. Baker Bashua

 

Officials attending in person:

Carmel Kirby, Director of Service

Paddy Tiernan, Acting Senior Executive Engineer

Eamon O’Dea, Senior Executive Engineer

Julie Kenny, Assistant Staff Officer (minutes).

 

Apologies:

Sean Lenihan, Senior Engineer

Niamh O’Connor, Administrative Officer and Meetings Administrator

Lily McInerney, Staff Officer.

 

Presiding:

The Cathaoirleach, Clare Colleran-Molloy presided. Cllr Colleran-Molloy opened the meeting welcoming all to September Meeting.

 

Votes of sympathy

None.

 

Item 1: Minutes of AGM 2024 and the July Meeting of Ennis Municipal District

Ar moladh Councillor P. Murphy Cuidithe ag Councillor A Baker Bashua agus glacadh leis

“That the AGM 2024 Minutes of Ennis Municipal District be adopted.”

“That the July 2024 Minutes of Ennis Municipal District be adopted.”

Item 2: Matters Arising

None.

 

Item 3: Ordinary Business

(i)                 Section 38 - Proposed Traffic Calming at Hawthorns estate, Clare Road, Ennis

Ar moladh Cllr. P. Daly Cuidithe ag Cllr. T. O’Callaghan agus glacadh leis

 

(ii)       Section 38 - Proposed Traffic Calming at St Joseph’s Terrace, Clarecastle, Ennis

Ar moladh Cllr. P. Murphy Cuidithe ag Cllr. T. Guilfoyle agus glacadh leis

 

(iii)      Section 38 - Proposed Traffic Calming at College Green, Ennis  

Ar moladh Cllr. T. O’Callaghan Cuidithe ag Cllr. P. Murphy agus glacadh leis

 

            (iv)       Section 38 - Proposed Traffic Calming at Doora Village (between Junctions L4114 and L4112), Ennis      

Ar moladh Cllr. P. Murphy Cuidithe ag Cllr. A. Baker Bashua agus glacadh leis

 

 

Item 4: GMA Allocations for Approval

 

Members were reminded in advance to declare a conflict of interest where applicable.

 

It is recorded that Cllr T Guilfoyle stated that in regard to Clarecastle GAA, in addition to being a member and coach for the adult team, he is also Vice Chair of the club. He left the Chamber for the duration of discussions on the allocations.

 

Councillor	Beneficiary	Amount	Conflict of Interest Declared
Cllr Tommy Guilfoyle	Clarecastle GAA, Camogie & Ladies Football (One Club)	€2,000.00	Cllr Tommy Guilfoyle
Cllr Tommy Guilfoyle	Manus Celtic FC	€1,000.00
Cllr Tommy Guilfoyle	Clarecastle Abbey Hall Committee towards Event Chairs	€1,000.00
Cllr Tommy Guilfoyle	Clarecastle Show Society DAC	€1,000.00
Cllr Tommy Guilfoyle	Co Clare Agricultural Show	€523.78
Cllr Tommy Guilfoyle	Cloughleigh Community Centre	€1,000.00
Cllr Tommy Guilfoyle	Clare Leader Forum	€500.00
Cllr Tommy Guilfoyle	Deaf Community Choir	€500.00
Cllr Tommy Guilfoyle	Clarecastle Day Care Centre	€1,000.00
	Total	€8,523.78

 

Ar moladh Cllr. P. Murphy Cuidithe ag Cllr. A. Baker Bashua agus glacadh leis

 

“that the above items be adopted by Ennis Municipal District.”

 

Item 5: Notice of Motion No. 1 Cleaning of River at Tulla Road Bridge back upstream

Ar moladh Cllr. P. Daly Cuidithe ag Cllr. T. O’Callaghan agus glacadh leis

No. 1     Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. Daly

 

I call on Ennis MD to put in place an annual cleaning of the river from the Tulla Road Bridge back upstream, that existing unzoned lands along the length of the Corrovorrin river be kept free of any future development, and that existing green/biodiversity riverside corridors be protected and preserved.

 

Paddy Tiernan, A/Senior Executive Engineer, responded as follows:

Ennis MD will carry out an inspection of this section of river as soon as practicable based on weather conditions and river levels. Based on the level of intervention required it is our intention to apply for funding under the Climate Action Fund for 2025. A plan will be put in place to allow for works to be carried out within the next 12 months in line with seasonal constraints. We wish to advise that any such works will require appropriate environmental approvals as well as relevant permissions from both Inland Fisheries Ireland and National Parks & Wildlife Service. Whilst extensive annual maintenance may not be necessary on this section of river, we will certainly continue to inspect the watercourse on a regular basis.

 

Candace Ingram, A/Senior Executive Planner, responded as follows:

The Corrovorrin river plays a vital role in the overall water quality of the River Fergus. To protect the river and the function of the river corridor as both a flood plain for the Corrovorrin River and its function as a riparian zone, the Clare County Development Plan 2023-2029 includes policy and land-use zoning to protect both the river and it’s riparian corridor by zoning it as Buffer space from Kevin Barry Avenue to the confluence with the Fergus. Buffer spaces are intended to provide a buffer of undeveloped land for the conservation of biodiversity, visual amenity, or green space and may include natural features such as floodplains, riparian zones, turloughs, valuable biodiversity areas including designated sites, amenity areas, woodlands, hedgerows, green spaces, and archaeological features. A riparian buffer zone is a strip of vegetated land running parallel to the river which acts as a buffer against negative human development activity, which must be sufficiently wide to protect the river. This strip must be large enough to protect the ecological integrity of the river and the riparian zone but can incorporate amenity uses provided it is done sensitively with minimal impact on the water and riparian environment. The Corrovorrin River riparian zone upstream of Kevin Barry Avenue to Dulick is zoned as Open Space which also influences the nature of future development that can be accommodated. The objective of zoning lands ‘open space’ is to retain it as an undeveloped open space mainly for passive open space related activities.

 

As the Corrovorrin River is completely within Flood Zone A, which will influence the potential for future development along the river corridor, building climate change resilience into the County Development Plan was a central consideration to both the zoning of lands and the development of objectives for future sustainable growth. All land use zonings were assessed from a flood risk and environmental perspective to ensure resilience and adaptation were accounted for throughout. This led to the inclusion of significant areas of buffer zone which will be protected due to their location adjacent to river channels, the presence of important wildlife corridors or their importance for biodiversity. 

 

This item was seconded by Cllr T O’Callaghan and agreed by all Members.

 

 

Cllr P Daly welcomed residents from Corrovorrin. He said the area needs to be cleaned annually. He indicated that the response was positive, but was disappointed that it would take twelve months to make the plan. Cllr T O’Callaghan voiced his support for this motion, stating that the area needs to be monitored on a regular basis for water levels and rezoning. Cllr P Murphy also expressed his support.

 

P Tiernan, A/Senior Executive Engineer advised that work can only commence at certain times due to seasonal and environmental constraints. He advised engagement with Inland Fisheries and the National Park and Wildlife Service was required in advance, forecasting September 2025 as the earliest opportunity to commence work.

 

Item 6: Notice of Motion No. 2 Bushy Park Road Footpath

Ar moladh Cllr. C. Colleran Molloy Cuidithe ag Cllr. A. Baker Bashua agus glacadh leis

No. 2     Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. Colleran-Molloy

 

Bushypark Road Footpath

 

A footpath has been sought on the Bushypark road for the past 24 years with promised delivery years ago. I ask that the EMD review this need and determine if there are delivery options available in the more immediate term. 

 

Paddy Tiernan, A/Senior Executive Engineer, responded as follows:

Members will be aware that the National Transport Authority (NTA) are our primary funding source for footpath projects in Ennis. The NTA have specific criteria for determining which projects are funded.

 

Ennis MD has recently carried out a desktop review in relation to a potential footpath on the Bushypark Road. Due to the rural natural of this area and the ribbon like nature of development within this area it is our opinion that it is currently unlikely the NTA would fund such a scheme. Our initial review has shown that a 530m length of footpath commencing at the junction with Lahinch Road would only serve 15 properties along Bushypark Road with half of these being on the opposite side of the road to any proposed footpath. Our analysis has also shown that land acquisitions would also be required at several locations along a proposed route in order to facilitate the construction of a footpath.

 

Due to the expected cost of such a scheme on this it is difficult to determine any viable delivery options at this time.

 

This item was seconded by Cllr A Baker Bashua and agreed by all Members.

 

 

Cllr C Colleran Molloy commented that she understood the rationale however it was not good news for residents.   Cllr P Daly outlined that while there were only 15 properties a lot of people use the road and it is a prime road for a new footpath. Cllr C Colleran Molloy requested costings for the project.  

 

P Tiernan, A/Senior Executive Engineer advised that the majority of funds are going to urban roads and sustainable travel as well as low-cost maintenance schemes. He advised that the project could be priced and the work could be completed, if the property owners are willing to contribute.

 

Item 7: Notice of Motion No. 3 Ballyea Road Laybys

Ar moladh Cllr. T. O’Callaghan Cuidithe ag Cllr. P.Daly agus glacadh leis

No. 3     Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. T. O’Callaghan

 

Ballyea Road

With the increase of ongoing traffic plus extension of Templemaley Graveyard that new Lay-bys be constructed along the roadway in the interest of public safety. 

 

Paddy Tiernan, A/Senior Executive Engineer, responded as follows:

Ennis MD are aware of this issue and recognise the need for lay-bays along this section of road. The L4146 is relatively narrow and poses difficulties for 2-way traffic. For the majority of the route there in insufficient space within the existing road easement to create lay-bys. As such we will engage with local landowners on both sides of the road with a view to securing land dedication agreements in order to allow for the creation of lay-bys. We will also have identify a funding source for any potential construction works.

 

This item was seconded by Cllr P Daly and agreed by all Members.

 

 

Cllr T O’Callaghan welcomed the response. Cllr P Daly provided support to the motion.

 

 

Item 8: Notice of Motion No. 4 Fergus River Walk – Parking Options

Ar moladh Cllr. T. Guilfoyle Cuidithe ag Cllr. T. O’Callaghan

No. 4     Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. T. Guilfoyle

 

Review of Parking Options at the Fergus River Walk

 

I propose that the Ennis Municipal Team conduct a thorough review of the parking options available at the Fergus River Walk. 

 

Specifically, I request that we assess the potential use of the overgrown grass hard shoulder at the Clareabbey roundabout entrance for additional parking spaces. Moreover, I urge consideration for the establishment of disabled parking spaces at the Quin Road entrance, or another suitable location, that would eliminate the steep hill currently faced by visitors approaching from the Abbey side.

 

Having personally used the walk, I have observed vehicles parked haphazardly at the entrance road, which poses safety concerns. Additionally, I have received feedback from individuals with disabilities who are struggling to find accessible parking that allows them to enjoy the area independently.

 

Addressing these parking issues will enhance accessibility and promote a positive experience for all visitors to the Fergus River Walk. 

 

 

Paddy Tiernan, A/Senior Executive Engineer, responded as follows:

Ennis MD acknowledge the request for additional parking at the Clareabbey end of the River Fergus Walk and welcome the suggestion to examine the potential of using the overgrown grass hard shoulder to facilitate same. We will explore this option further with a view to meeting the request. A funding source will need to be identified but the costs associated are unlikely to be considerable.

 

Unfortunately, the existing topography and difference in ground levels at the Clareabbey end of the walkway pose difficulties from a wheelchair accessibility point of view. This issue was raised and addressed at the February 2024 meeting of Ennis Municipal District where we outlined the obstacles to installing a ramp or a cost-effective alternative solution. At this time, we recommended wheelchair users continue to use the access from Quin Road.

 

With respect to access from the Quin Road end and especially in relation to wheelchair parking we wish to confirm that no specific parking has been provided directly at the Quin Road entrance due to both road safety and flooding issues. However, there are multiple parking options in both private and public locations including designated disabled car parking spaces at the recently resurfaced Clare Camogie grounds. All these locations are within a relatively short distance of the entrance. The walkway can be accessed from any of these locations using existing public footpaths.

 

 

This item was seconded by Cllr T O’Callaghan and agreed by all Members.

 

 

Cllr T Guilfoyle commented on the parking deficit and recommended the hard shoulder as a parking area. He highlighted the difficulties experienced by people with disabilities in securing parking and getting over the mound on the Clarecastle side adding that the far side the Quin Road is a little far away for independent wheelchair use. Cllr T O’Callaghan indicated support, outlining his own observations on the wide usage of the facility.

 

Cllr P Murphy supported the motion noting that the area in front of the bollards should be kept clear to allow access in case of emergency. Cllr C Colleran Molloy sought clarification on the request contained in the motion. P Tiernan A/Senior Executive Engineer advised against wheelchair access at the Clarecastle side.   Cllr T Guilfoyle agreed with P Tiernan and hopes to see parking on the Clarecastle side.

 

Item 9: Notice of Motion No. 5 Lack of Playgrounds in MD Area

Ar moladh Cllr. A. Baker Bashua Cuidithe ag Cllr. P. Murphy agus glacadh leis

No. 5     Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. A. Baker-Bashua

 

Lack of Playgrounds in Ennis and Surrounding Areas:

That a comprehensive review be undertaken to identify potential sites for additional playgrounds across Ennis and its surrounding areas.

While we are fortunate to have playgrounds like the one on the Fairgreen and another in Clarecastle, there is a significant lack of facilities for a population of over 30,000. The Fairgreen playground is a 20-30 minute walk for many residents and is often very busy. While canvassing across Ennis, the significant shortage of easily accessible playgrounds was highlighted on many doorsteps. Investing in the development of additional playgrounds will not only provide children with opportunities for physical activity and social interaction, but also strengthen the fabric of our neighbourhoods. This review will help identify potential sites and guide future funding allocation to meet this important need.

 

Paddy Tiernan, A/Senior Executive Engineer, responded as follows:

We wish to advise that there are currently 4 playgrounds within the town of Ennis. These are located within Tim Smythe Park, Cloughleigh, Lees Road and Coote Park. These facilities were developed on Council owned lands, and are managed, maintained, and operated by Clare Co Council as part of Active Ennis. These playgrounds are the only council owned playgrounds within county Clare with all other playgrounds having been developed by Community Groups.

 

Ennis MD acknowledge the request for additional facilities and want to make members aware that planning permission currently exists for a playground within Park Avenue estate opposite Dunnes Stores. In 2023 Ennis MD submitted a funding application to the Department of Rual and Community Development under the Community Recognition Fund to the value of €160,000 in order to construct this playground. Unfortunately, our application was unsuccessful and the project remains without a funding source. We will contain to examine and explore all other potential funding avenues in order to deliver this project.

 

A per the request we can confirm we will also carry out a review to identify potential additional sites for further playgrounds across Ennis and its surrounding areas. We wish to note that opportunities will also arise under the development of the Local Area Plan for Ennis in order to identify suitable sites for such facilities.

 

 

Jason Murphy, Director of Service, responded as follows:

Thank you for your feedback from the community across the town of Ennis.

Clare County Council welcomes the addition of any infrastructure that enhances the lives of the people in our communities. As an organisation we are currently working through several steps (plan making) that will allow us to put additional structure and focus into increasing participation in activity. On a cross-directorate basis, we are open to engaging with and seeking solutions to deliver.

By way of background, the practice of providing playgrounds across the county has developed in multiple ways through the years. In some instances, facilities have been delivered by active community groups while in others play facilities have been provided directly by the Municipal Districts, or historically through the Town Councils. Active Ennis has also provided playground facilities in the town. In turn, the lead groups have traditionally managed and maintained those facilities.

 

While this approach may have led to sporadic development across the county the advantage was the ability to move projects forward when funding or suitable sites were available and particular communities activated: A sense of community ownership. On an ongoing basis new play facilities are provided across the county – A recent example is the community led facility in Parteen.

The opportunity to develop a playground is generally based on an understood need, the necessary lead group/agency (who will also manage the facility), the availability of suitable sites and ultimately in sourcing funding.

 

The county (outside Ennis) is well served with a range of excellent community-led playgrounds that are owned, operated, managed, and insured by the Community Playground Committee who apply for grant support under the Clare Local Area Grants Scheme.

In Ennis, Clare County Council maintains and operates several sporting amenities through Active Ennis with several of these amenities providing youth-focused activity spaces and playgrounds. These include:

• Children’s Playground, Tim Smythe Park.

• Teen Activity Playground, Tim Smythe Park.

• Multi Use Games Area, Tim Smythe Park.

• Friends Together Playground, Cloughleigh.

• Rainbow Park Playground, Coote Park.

• Lees Road Children’s Playground.

• Skateboard Park, Lees Road.

The provision of additional social infrastructure in the town is always welcome. In order to achieve this, community engagement and activation is key so that the need and desire (particularly in relation to specific location) for a local facility is understood and accepted by the community as a whole.

 

There are many stakeholders who can drive this activation from the Community themselves (i.e. community group) or through local Councillors or a third-party agency such as a community centre.

 

Clare County Council’s Rural & Community Development Officers (Rural Development Directorate) are available to meet community groups and councillors and can assist in guiding groups through the various stages. When the need is understood and plans prepared with stakeholders it is also possible for the Municipal Districts to provide playground infrastructure.

 

Funding is available from a variety of sources from time to time. The Department of Children (DCEDIY) does provide grant funding schemes for play and recreation, and other funding programmes such as the ‘Community Recognition Fund’ do present periodically.

At the present time the Social Directorate (which includes Active Ennis) is leading out on the development of a ‘County Sports Plan’ in conjunction with Sport Ireland. Clare County Council is also working with the Clare Sports Partnership on the development of an ‘Outdoor Recreation Strategy’ for the County. Both plans are being developed as part of two national pilot schemes and it is envisaged that these plans will guide a wider overall review of all activities including playgrounds.

If there is a particular community or locality that might benefit from the development of facilities the Rural & Community Development Officers are available to engage and assist locally. As the plans currently under development are finalised we look forward to creating a framework for the development of youth focussed spaces such as playgrounds – As with all our plans communities, Councillors and agencies will be involved in any such plan.

 

 

This item was seconded by Cllr P Murphy and agreed by all Members.

 

 

Cllr A Baker Bashua commented that there should be more facilities for the youth. She recommended assisting communities to get over the steps to be successful in providing facilities. She added that a lot of people want to walk to playgrounds but are unable to do so owing to busy roads.  

 

Cllr P Murphy in support, pointed out that all the playgrounds are on the one side of town and not adequate (e.g. Clarecastle) for the numbers who would like to use them. He said there is a requirement for a playground in the Eire Óg/St Flannans/ College Road area of town.

 

Cllr T Guilfoyle also wished to support this motion, noting also that the playgrounds were on the southwest of town. He requested a workshop be organised for Councillors on how to establish playgrounds. Cllr T O’Callaghan also supported this motion and supported Cllr T Guilfoyle’s call for a workshop. Cllr P Daly highlighted the need for at least two more playgrounds at the west side of Ennis at Corrovorrin and College Road/Tobarteascain. Cllr C Colleran Molloy in support highlighted that Ennis is a town which is expanding, with a population which has grown from 23,000 to 28,000 and continues to rise.

 

Carmel Kirby, Director of Services, in response to Cllr Guilfoyle’s request for a workshop, said that there were a number of ideas in the reply from Jason Murphy, Director of Services and asked for P Tiernan A/Senior Executive Engineer to liaise with the DOS to get an update for the elected representatives.

 

Cllr M Howard noted that she had raised this issue before and emphasised again the need to identify lands for playgrounds. She said there are a huge amount of new houses with limited facilities.

 

Item 10: Notice of Motion No. 6 Maintenance of Walkway at Fr McNamara Park, Doora

Ar moladh Cllr. M. Howard Cuidithe ag Cllr. P. Daly agus glacadh leis

No. 6     Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. M. Howard

 

Can a maintenance schedule be put in place for the walkway at Fr. McNamara Park on the Quin Road at Doora.

 

Paddy Tiernan, A/Senior Executive Engineer, responded as follows:

 

The walkways referred to above are within the former Doora landfill site. This site is under the control of the Environmental Department of Clare County Council. Extensive maintenance of the walkway was carried out a number of years ago through a successful funding application to the Department of Rual and Community Development under the Outdoor Recreational Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS). Following a recent discussion with our colleagues in the Environmental Department we can confirm that a further funding application for the maintenance of these walkways will be made later this year under the next round of this scheme.

 

In the meantime, the Environmental Department have confirmed that their Gardening Section have commenced some light maintenance of the existing footpaths including the opening up of walkways and cutting back of overhanging foliage. This intervention will ensure the area remains accessible and attractive for walkers.

 

 

This item was seconded by Cllr P Daly and agreed by all Members.

 

Cllr M Howard requested that both her motions be dealt with together as they were of a similar nature. She stressed that the facilities are there, but a scheme is needed to maintain the walkways to a certain standard. She advised that the Quin Road trail is overgrown and that users of the Lees Road trails are leaving the amenity covered in muck.   She stated that additional outdoor staff may be required to ensure these facilities meet standards. Cllr P Daly supported this motion.   Cllr C Colleran Molloy supported the motion and the call for additional staff, stating that some athletes are not able to train and some events could not be held on site.

 

Item 11: Notice of Motion No. 7 Overgrown Hedgerow Ballybeg Cross 

Ar moladh Cllr. P. Murphy Cuidithe ag Cllr. T. O’Callaghan agus glacadh leis

No. 7     Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. P. Murphy

Re the overgrown hedgerow, which is growing outbound from the Irish Water yard at Ballybeg Cross, Clarecastle. I am requesting that this is addressed as a matter of urgency. It is taking over the parking bays adjacent to the Kildysart Cross which in turn leads to the footpath being blocked by cars and this in turn is forcing pedestrians out onto the road creating a huge Health and Safety issue for pedestrians, cyclists and motorists.

 

Paddy Tiernan, A/Senior Executive Engineer, responded as follows:

Ennis MD have liaised with the property owner, Uisce Eireann, with a view to resolving this issue and quickly as possible. We expect the overgrowth will be cut back in so far as possible within the next 2 weeks.

 

We would like to take the opportunity to remind landowners and occupiers of land of their responsibilities under the Roads Act 1993. Landowners and occupiers of land are obliged to take all reasonable care to ensure that the trees, ditches, hedges and other vegetation growing on their land are not or could not become a danger to people using or working on a public road. This Act also states that liability for damage or injury resulting from such hazards will rest with the landowner/occupier.

 

This item was seconded by Cllr T O’Callaghan and agreed by all Members.

 

Cllr P Murphy advised that ‘Kildysart Cross’ should read ‘Ballybeg Cross’ in the motion. He advised that he has observed cars/vans parked on the footpath forcing pedestrians onto the road at a very busy location and the area is blocked all the time. He also welcomed the second part of the response, referring to the need for landowners to cut hedges.

 

P Tiernan, A/Senior Executive Engineer, responded that landowners/occupiers are obliged to maintain hedges and trees etc and are liable for any road incidents. He made reference to appropriate national legislation and the fact that some landowners are unaware of their responsbilites.   He added that while the Council may during the course of their work, cut back hedges for health and safety reasons, this would not be the norm.

 

Item 12: Notice of Motion No. 8 Radharc na Bhoirne – Taking in Charge

Ar moladh Cllr. C. Colleran Molloy Cuidithe ag Cllr. A. Baker Bashua agus glacadh leis

No. 8     Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. Colleran-Molloy

 

That the Council commence the process for the taking-in-charge of Radharc na Bhoirne development

Kieran O’Donnell, Administrative Officer, responded as follows:

The Planning Authority is not in a position to commence the process for the taking-in-charge of Radharc na Bhoirne as the developer for this development is still active. The developer is required to submit a Taking in Charge application to the Planning Department, before the process can be commenced.

 

This item was seconded by Cllr A Baker Bashua and agreed by all Members.

 

Item 13: Notice of Motion No. 9 Cappahard Lane - Speedbumps

Ar moladh Cllr. T. O’Callaghan Cuidithe ag Cllr. T. Guilfoyle agus glacadh leis

No. 9     Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. T. O’Callaghan

Cappahard Lane

To request speed bumps be placed on Cappahard Lane due to the new housing development New Park Grove recently constructed.  The additional housing is welcomed but increase in traffic calming protection of public safety also needs to be priority. 

 

Paddy Tiernan, A/Senior Executive Engineer, responded as follows:

 

Ennis MD will investigate the issue and if justified will propose a suitable traffic calming measure for this area. A speed survey will be carried out to determine the extent of the speeding. We wish to advise that Section 38 approval is required for traffic calming measures. A funding source will also have to be identified for such a scheme.

 

This item was seconded by Cllr T Guilfoyle and agreed by all Members.

 

Cllr T O’Callaghan outlined that there are a number of new houses at the top of the lane, there are many young families and elderly people in the area, an investigation is warranted.

 

Cllr T Guilfoyle supported this motion adding that any measures connected with road safety should be addressed at the earliest opportunity.

 

Cllr P Daly wished to support this motion, he noted additional traffic since the new estate was built. He advised that this road is being used as a short cut to the Tulla Road and speed ramps are required.

 

Item 14: Notice of Motion No. 10 Drochaid na Gabhair Bridge – Pedestrian Safety

Ar moladh Cllr. T. Guilfoyle Cuidithe ag Cllr. P. Daly

No. 10 Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. T. Guilfoyle  

 

Update on Pedestrian Safety at Drochaid na Gabhair Bridge:

 

I call upon the Ennis Municipal Team to provide a full update on the ongoing issue of pedestrian safety when crossing the Drochaid na Gabhair bridge on the Drumcliffe Road. 

 

This matter is a massive concern for our community and has previously been highlighted through discussions, a public protest, and a signed petition submitted to the Council. The need for a separate, fully accessible pedestrian footbridge to ensure safe passage for pedestrians from the Watery Road roundabout to Lees Road cannot be overstated.

 

Furthermore, I request that the Ennis Municipal District commit to carrying out this project within the lifetime of this Council. The continued delays in addressing this issue pose a serious public safety risk, and it is imperative that we prioritize this project before an unfortunate accident occurs.

 

Anne O’Sullivan, Senior Executive Engineer, responded as follows:

 

NTA Active Travel funding was provided to carry out a transportation assessment which included a feasibility and option selection report to examine pedestrian / cyclist permeability over the Drehidnagower bridge. As Active Travel funding for a separate structural solution would not be available in the near or intermediate future, the preferred option to improve safety that has emerged is to install a 3.0m wide shared pedestrian/cyclist path with a 3.4m wide carriageway across the existing bridge, controlled by a signalised yield system.

This solution of optimising and improving existing infrastructure is in line with the National Investment Frameworks for Transportation in Ireland (NIFTI) which is a guiding policy document for Active Travel Funding. The preliminary design for the bridge crossing is currently underway.

 

As with many of these type interventions they need to be part of a wider transportation solution and any crossing of this bridge must be supported by the appropriate pedestrian/cycling infrastructure connections. The RDO will work with Ennis MD & endeavour to provide such connections.

 

This item was seconded by Cllr P Daly and agreed by all Members.

 

Cllr T Guilfoyle said there was a campaign for the bridge to be made safer and noted it had been on the agenda before.   He indicated his own preferred measure would be a separate footpath to link up paths between Lees Road and Gort Road.   He highlighted that the bridge is very busy and to restrict it would be taking steps backwards. Cllr P Daly supported the notice of motion indicating that a footbridge would take a lot of pressure off. Cllr T O’Callaghan stated that there is no simple solution to maintain traffic flow while providing for pedestrians and cyclists.

 

Cllr A Baker Bashua supported the motion saying it is a very busy junction from Lees Road to Gort Road and is used by schools.   Cllr C Colleran Molloy also supported this motion.

 

Cllr M Howard supporting this motion, recognised that there have been improvements carried out and that a streetlight was put in for houses on Lifford side of the bridge. She stated that the Council needs to do everything within its power to find funding to make the bridge safer, adding that the bridge is in constant use for 16 – 18 hours a day.

 

Cllr P Murphy supported the motion. He said this has been going on a number of years and the ideal solution was a separate footpath as there would be traffic congestion if the bridge was restricted.

 

E O’Dea Senior Executive Engineer indicated that Ennis Town Council, Clare County Council and Ennis Muncicipal District have sought funding for this. The only NTA funding available is for sustainable travel and for locations where existing infrastructure can be used to solve the problem. He said weight and speed limit restrictions have been implemented and that traffic lights will structure the use of the bridge as a one way system.

 

Cllr T Guilfoyle indicated that he fully supported improvements as people have been clipped by vehicles coming over the bridge. There is a need to do something with the bridge and would like to know why it can’t be funded properly now and take all the steps to make it safer.   Cllr C Colleran Molloy concluded that best efforts were being made and that Drehidnagower bridge was a priority.

 

Item 15: Notice of Motion No. 11 Pedestrian Crossing at Clareabbey Roundabout

Ar moladh Cllr. A. Baker Bashua Cuidithe ag Cllr. P. Murphy agus glacadh leis

No. 11 Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. A. Baker-Bashua

 

Pedestrian Crossing on the Clareabbey Roundabout:

Carry out a survey of the pedestrian traffic crossing on the westside of the N85 junction with the Clareabbey Roundabout to establish the need for a safe pedestrian crossing point.

 

Many residents crossing between the Clarecastle and Ennis sides of the Clareabbey roundabout are taking their lives in their hands each time they cross this busy road. There is no safe crossing point.

 

Given that this route is used by many residents out walking, including those walking their children to the creche on Kildysart Road, it is critical to address the significant safety risk posed by the lack of a crossing. Residents are forced to navigate high-speed traffic on a busy junction, creating a dangerous situation. A safe pedestrian crossing many be needed to prevent potential accidents or serious injuries.

 

 

 

 

Clareabbey Roundabout

 

Anne O’Sullivan, Senior Executive Engineer, responded as follows:

A pedestrian crossing at this location is being developed in conjunction with TII. A feasibility report has been submitted to TII for their approval. This report identifies the preferred option of raised pedestrian crossing facilities on the western arm of the N85 Clareabbey Roundabout. Once approval is received this will progress to preliminary design.

 

This item was seconded by Cllr P Murphy and agreed by all Members.

 

 

Cllr A Baker Bashua acknowledged the response stating that the road is crossed by parents with children and students adding that a raised pedestrian crossing would be welcome.

Cllr P Murphy supported and welcomed the response and noted that pedestrians and cyclists seem to have been forgotten in the design of the roundabout. Cllr T Guilfoyle also supported adding that he couldn’t understand why a divide was put in between Ennis and Clarecastle.

Cllr T O’Callaghan was delighted to support the motion and is fully on board. Cllr P Daly noted that it was fantastic news.

Cllr C Colleran Molloy supported this motion and agreed that there is a divide between Ennis and Clarecastle and that the footbridge on the Western side was preferable as the Eastern side is very dangerous.

 

Item 16: Notice of Motion No. 12 Lees Road Trails – Remedial Works 

Ar moladh Cllr. M. Howard Cuidithe ag Cllr. P. Daly agus glacadh leis

No. 12 Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. M. Howard                

 

Can remedial works be carried out on the trails in Lee’s Road including the placement of suitable material to prevent water logging.

 

Ritchie Murphy, Sports Facility Manager, responded as follows:

We have provision in our current Pitch Maintenance programme to address 100 linear metres of the worst affected woodland footpaths. A work schedule is being finalised with the contractor and we aim to have the works completed ahead of the upcoming winter months.

 

This item was seconded by Cllr P Daly and agreed by all Members.

 

This item was discussed with notice of motion number 6 as the topics were similar.

 

Item 17: Notice of Motion No. 13 Bunnow Graveyard Upgrade

Ar moladh Cllr. P. Murphy Cuidithe ag Cllr. C. Colleran Molloy agus glacadh leis

No. 13 Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. P. Murphy

 

I am requesting that the access road to Bunnow Graveyard is upgraded and that a new gate be provided.

 

Paddy Tiernan, A/Senior Executive Engineer, responded as follows:

The road accessing Bunnow Graveyard is a private road and is not in the charge of Clare County Council. Therefore, it is not possible for Ennis Municipal District to intervene. However, the local landowners may be eligible for funding from the Department of Rural and Community Development under the Local Road Improvements Scheme. This scheme provides funding to help local authorities carry out improvement works on private and non-publicly maintained roads. The application for such funding be made by the local landowners.

 

Joe Spellissy, Senior Staff Officer, Rural & Community Department responded as follows:

The entrance gate to Bunnow Graveyard has been refurbished within the last three weeks.

 

This item was seconded by Cllr C Colleran Molloy and agreed by all Members.

 

Cllr P Murphy didn’t realise that the road is private and noted that he’ll have to wait for the next Local Improvement Scheme to get work done. He was delighted to see the gateway was fixed.

 

Cllr C Colleran Molloy supported the motion and said she had been approached about this matter since re-election and was happy to see the gate was fixed.

 

Item 18: Notice of Motion No. 14 Lifford Road Fairgreen Pedestrian Crossing

Ar moladh Cllr. P. Daly Cuidithe ag Cllr. T. O’Callaghan agus glacadh leis

No. 14 Notice of Motion submitted by Cllr. P. Daly

 

I request Ennis Municipal District to consider putting down a pedestrian crossing from the Spar shop on Lifford Road (beside St. Joseph’s hospital) across the road to the Fairgreen.

 

Paddy Tiernan, A/Senior Executive Engineer, responded as follows:

There are currently two pedestrian crossings on Lifford Road and these are with 200m of each other. A signal-controlled crossing is available just east of the entrance to St Joseph’s Hospital with the other controlled crossing located between the Spar shop and the roundabout at Kellys Corner. Both of these provide safe pedestrian access to the Fairgreen. Ennis MD are of the opinion that the introduction of an additional crossing between the two existing ones may lead to increased traffic congestion along Lifford Road due to the requirement of vehicles to stop more often. A new crossing would also result in the removal of up to 8 on-street car parking spaces and potentially interfere with the existing bus stop.

As an alternative to installing a new crossing Ennis MD proposes to carry out an assessment of the existing crossings including the current designated pedestrian routes between the local businesses on Lifford Road and the Fairgreen.

 

This item was seconded by Cllr T O’Callaghan and agreed by all Members.

 

Cllr P Daly accepted the response.   Cllr T O’Callaghan supported the motion, adding that it isa very busy area. Cllr A Baker Bashua in support noted that a lot of children cross in front of the shop and the crossings are ignored because they are not the shortest/most direct route to the shop.

 

E O’Dea said that these issues would be raised as part of the Transport Plan for the area.

 

Item 19: Correspondence

None.

Item 20: Any Other Business

Cllr C Colleran Molloy, on behalf of the Ennis MD Councillors, wished both Seán Lenihan, Senior Engineer and Patrick Tiernan, A/Senior Executive Engineer a speedy recovery.

 

Conclusion

The meeting ended at 16:00 hrs.

Signed: ____________________________ Riarthóir Cruinnithe

Signed: _____________________________ Cathaoirleach

Date:                  _____________________________

Page last reviewed: 08/10/24

Content managed by: Ennis Municipal District

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