Residents seek Cornamaddy car park upgrades

By Rebekah O'Reilly

Residents of the Cornamaddy housing estate on the Ballymahon Road in Athlone have sought improved parking facilities.

The issue was highlighted at a recent meeting of Athlone Moate Municipal District, as Cllr John Dolan raised a motion asking the council to "assist in the provision of additional car parking in Cornamaddy estate, potentially in the green area”.

"Residents are happy to sacrifice some of the green area, and put in even temporary car parking spaces with a gravel surface," Cllr Dolan said.

"Part of the problem is that if an emergency vehicle had to get in to the estate, they couldn't. People have adult children living at home, so many houses have at least two cars."

The motion received wide support among the members of the chamber.

Cllr Frankie Keena said it is a health a safety issue, as the roads are very narrow.

"There has been similar done in Iona Park. I don't see why there isn't support from the Executive. It can be done to the same specifications with lined spaced and black top."

Cllr Aengus O'Rourke mirrored the same sentiment, noting that "it has been done before".

"This could easily be provided in Cornamaddy."

Cllr John Gibbons said Cornmaddy was an established estate which was designed at a time where car ownership was different, and additional spaces are needed.

Responding to the motion, District Engineer Willie Ryan said whilst he supports the motion, it would lead to huge expense for the council.

"It's an area were not in a position to invest in. It can cost from €5,000 to €12,000 per space for the same specifications as Iona Park, it's a significant undertaking.

"I won't close the door fully. We'll have a look on the ground. If we're going to do it, we'll do it right."