Footpaths urgently needed on both sides of Glasson village

The urgent need for a footpath on both sides of the street in Glasson village was raised at the July meeting of the Athlone-Moate Municipal District.

The motion, tabled by Cllr Frankie Keena, highlighted the need for a footpath on the west side (Garda Station) to complement that on the east side.

He asked the council to "engage further with the OPW to seek the use of the land at the Glasson Garda Station for a public carpark and to also with the intention of stepping back the front boundary wall to accommodate the provision of a footpath along the main street in the interest of public health and safety."

"The fact people have to cross a national road to walk from one end of the village to the other - it's not good enough," said Cllr Keena. "The District needs to install footpaths on both side of the road

"Why can the District not engage in a leasing programme with the OPW to acquire the land for parking in Glasson. I don't want the works to be delayed by pricing debates when buying the land."

There was agreement from all members of the chamber, with Cllr John Gibbons adding that a double footpath is "badly needed".

"One of the stand-out points is improving the safety of people in Glasson village," Cllr Paul Hogan said. "There are provisions within the OPW to transfer land from one State body to another at a nominal cost.

"With the Minister being a former member of this chamber, why could we not give him a call to ask for a leasing programme. We're only six months out from the roads programme, and this should be included, but we need to know the costings ahead of that."

In response, District Engineer said the council executive are not "sitting on our hands" on the issue.

"We are compiling our proposal of what we feel we need with all of the stakeholders. It's not straightforward."

Director of Services Jackie Finney added: "Both leasing and procurement will be considered once we know what is suitable."