Calls for action over parking and access at Coosan Point

Concerns have been raised over parking and access issues at Coosan Point during busy spells.

Cllr John Dolan has called for a plan to be developed to deal with issues with speed, traffic, parking, and anti-social behaviour at Coosan Point at last week’s meeting of Athlone Moate Municipal District.

"With fine weather, we all know that Coosan Point is a great amenity.

It's a busy place, and it's a lovely place - it gets a lot of visitors," he told the June meeting.

"During the last spell, I had a number of calls about the traffic and parking, where there were cars both sides of the road, which left a very narrow laneway for access to Coosan Point. God forbid if there was an emergency down there, there would be no access. What was brought home to me was the speed of the traffic. We have to take responsibility to do something about it.

"There was a motion previously to cut the verges and improve the sightlines, there's a number of things I would like to see. When we have an amenity like this, it should be natural that we maintain it because we know it’s a very busy place. I know there were major issues around anti-social behaviour down there, so I'm glad to see that about the community wardens.

"Can we erect CCTV? Could be we do a speed survey down there? Is there a plan to improve the parking down there? We need a solution,” he said.

The motion received widespread support from councillors in the chamber, with many noting they have had similar issues raised by members of the public.

"The RNLI have a life-saving boat down there, and it's not possible to get down there on a busy day," said Cllr John Gibbons.

"There is a safety issue on that road, and the hedges need to be cut back."

Cllr Frankie Keena echoed concerns about the RNLI's access during busy periods.

"We're fortunate to have such a fabulous amenity," he said. "There are issues, and we need action at this stage."

Members also suggested a Park & Ride facility be provided on busier days, such as Bank Holidays or during hot spells.

In relation to preventing anti-social behaviour or poor parking, Cllr Aengus O'Rourke added: "All we need is a few hot days, and things can get out of hand. Would the community warden call the guards? The presence of the guards might be enough."

The written response by the executive pointed towards the upcoming Coosan Point Public Amenity Masterplan as the solution.

The plan, which the council said was being finalised “seeks to address matters such as traffic management, parking, and overall use of the area”.

“This Masterplan will be implemented on a phased basis subject to the securing of a suitable funding source.

"In the interim, the Council has committed to lining works within the car park to protect access to the RNLI station. Additionally, verge cutting along the approach road to Coosan Point has been completed in recent weeks, improving visibility and safety. Community Wardens are undertaking weekend patrols over the summer, providing advice and information to visitors. No anti-social behaviour has been noted since these patrols commenced in early June."

District Manager Annie Blessington said community wardens have been briefed about the need to keep the RNLI pathways clear.

District Engineer Willie Ryan confirmed there had not been a speed survey on the road, but that the council could look at putting in a ramp or other such speed measures on the road.

"The Lough Ree Inn are making an investment in the area, and they have engaged with the council. Enhanced traffic lining is planned, and we might progress those sooner.

It is a wonderful amenity. It's in a cul-de-sac, and it's very popular, so traffic issues are natural. We are taking concerns seriously."