Contentious right of way to be closed

Athlone Town Council has started the process of closing a right of way between Cartron Drive and Ard na Glug.


It follows complaints and representations from residents over many years, claiming that the area has become a gathering place for large groups of people, some of whom are engaging in anti-social behaviour.


Director of Services, Hugh O’Reilly, stated that Cllr Mark Cooney had previously put down a motion asking for the right of way to be shut, and since then, they also received several other representations asking for the same course of action.


From a policy point of the view, Mr O’Reilly went on to say that a right of way should ideally stay open, but if it is the wish of residents to close it, then the council doesn’t have difficulty doing that.


He reminded members that closing a right of way usually creates a longer route for the public, meaning people need to use their car more often and it can cause problems.


Cllr Mark Cooney said that everyone is aware of the problems in both estates. He asked that it goes forward for public consultation and that a leaflet drop is undertaken in both estates to let people know.


“It’s a great Christmas present for the residents of Cartron Drive and Ard na Glug who have been looking for this for some time now,” Cllr Kevin 'Boxer’ Moran commented, seconding Cllr Cooney’s proposal to start the process of closing the right of way between the two estates.