Calls to secure public realm plan for Duleek

A CALL for a public realm plan for Duleek which would look at how to enhance infrastructure and public spaces and improve traffic in the village was made at a meeting of the Laytown/Bettystown Municipal Council last week.

Cllr Stephen McKee secured a commitment from Meath County Council to develop a public realm plan pending the availability of funding.

"Apublicrealm plan would influence the way Duleek will look and function into the future and I am pleased my motion was adopted. No timeframe was given as to when the Plan can start but I will keep the pressure on," he said.

"A public realm plan would offer solutions to enhance all the public spaces in Duleek including street layout and how best to create a functional and pleasant environment in which to live, shop and interact for everyone.

"It is clear to me that we need a co-ordinated approach to develop public infrastructure in the village, improve the environment for local business to flourish and enhance the quality of life for local residents.

"How we manage traffic and road safety in Duleek is one major issue. I would like to see the completion of the Main Street Traffic Management Plan as soon as possible and a new pedestrian crossing down at Londis. Traffic calming is badly needed also on the Station Road, on the Longford Road, the Navan Road and out at Duleek soccer club at Carranstown.

The proposed Duleek By-Pass needs to be firmly back on the agenda as does a possible HGV ban too.

"The Council Area Manager has agreed with me that it is a good idea worth pursuing by the Council. I thank her for this, and I will work to ensure that funding can be made available for this as soon as possible," he concluded.