Laois County Council is to investigate the possibility of constructing a 1.4km cycle path and walkway in the county.
Fine Gael Councillor PJ Kelly put forward a proposal in relation to a stretch of road in Killenard.
This, he says, would connect Killenard National School to O’Dempsey’s GAA pitch.
Cllr Kelly said: “There is a petition in place that has more than 300 signatures.
“It is a substantial stretch of around 1.4km but I believe it is required.”
Sinn Fein Councillor Aidan Mullins said: “This is a big project but if it isn’t put on the agenda then it won’t happen.
“This is a growing community and more than 100 houses were granted planning permission recently.
“We are always trying to encourage people to get out and walk or cycle so I fully support it.”
Engineer Diarmaid Donohue said: “The Council recognises the importance of bringing about connectivity between schools and sports clubs, particularly in rural villages.
“Subject to approval by the National Transport Authority, the feasibility of developing a pedestrian/cycle track from Killenard to O’Dempsey’s will require consideration of constraints such as speed limits, third party landowners, road drainage and environmental issues.
“I will contact Councillor Kelly to arrange a meeting.”
Meanwhile, Cllr Kelly also requested that a junction known as Powell’s Crossroads on the Portarlington/Ballybrittas Road be made safe.
He explained that the view turning to Killenard ‘can be very dangerous’.
Engineer Philip McVeigh said that Council will survey the location and make a funding application for the 2023 Low Cost Safety Improvement Works.
Separately, Cllr Kelly also asked for water gullies to be installed on the Rath Road near the Ballyadding Lane junction.
He explained how large oak trees hold water and that the area becomes flooded during wet water.
Engineer McVeigh said the Council would seek a quote for these works and intend to carry them out as soon as possible.
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