Concern raised about ‘slippery’ new paving on Athlone street

A new pedestrianised area of Athlone is taking shape - but a local councillor is hoping people won't lose their footing when they walk on it.

The new sandstone paving on Sean Costello Street was brought up by Cllr Frankie Keena during a meeting of the Athlone Moate Municipal District yesterday (Monday) afternoon.

Cllr Keena praised the appearance of the new surface, but said concerns had been raised with him about how slippery it could become in wet conditions.

"The sandstone paving looks absolutely amazing. It's fabulous. But I've had a query about it because it's slippery in wet weather," said the Fianna Fáil councillor.

"Could we get that checked out, to make sure it's up to spec? I noticed myself that, when the weather is wet, it's kind of slippery."

Cllr Keena asked if a response could be sought from the council's regeneration team and from John Cradock Ltd, the contractor carrying out the multi-million euro streetscape revamp.

"It's important that Westmeath County Council, and this district, wouldn't be open to any litigation in the future, when this work is completed," he added.

Replying on behalf of the local authority, its acting director of services, Ambrose Clarke, said he'd had "preliminary discussions" with the regeneration team after Cllr Keena had brought the matter to his attention.

"My understanding is that the pavement is as designed, and that it meets all the specs, but I am investigating that before I respond formally," said Mr Clarke.