Public Realm Plan proposed for Duleek
A public realm plan for Duleek will be developed by Meath County Council in collaboration with Queen's University Belfast.
A group of qualified students will work with council planners to develop the plan. There will also be consultation with the general public.
"Everyone will have an opportunity to have their say on it," said Cllr Stephen McKee who warmly welcomed the news.
"I have been lobbying for this for some time."
Cllr McKee secured a commitment from Meath County Council last summer to develop the public realm plan for Duleek, pending the availability of funding, following a motion he tabled.
"The Council have now told me that collaboration has been agreed between Queen’s University Belfast and the planning section of Meath County Council to begin a public realm plan.
"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. It will be important that adequate funding is provided to ensure that any agreed public realm plan can be fully funded and that the work is fully carried out."
He said the management of traffic and road safety in Duleek is a 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.
"There are just far too many HGV's coming through the village. I am also seeking to secure funding under the national Safe Routes To School Programme to make the route safer from the centre of Duleek out to the national schools including a full cycle lane," he said.