The Strand seating now to be restored ‘early in 2026’

By Rebekah O'Reilly

Plans to install new seating and litter bins along the scenic Strand area of Athlone, on the banks of the river Shannon, have been delayed until the New Year.

The issue was raised by Cllr John Dolan at the latest meeting of Athlone Moate Municipal District, as he asked when the seating would be installed now that the car park at The Strand had been re-opened to the public.

District engineer Willie Ryan said the new seating had been "ordered and paid for" but could not be placed due to "ongoing activity" in the area. "I imagine it will be early in the new year," Mr Ryan said.

"There's still work going on in regard to flood defences. The last thing we want to do is install the new seating with the risk that it could be damaged."

The original benches at The Strand were removed during the Covid-19 pandemic, and have not be replaced due to ongoing Athlone Main Drainage works.

In July, the council earmarked September for the installation of the new seating.

Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme