Laois County Council have been urged to take action at a rural playground, which has been described as “a very serious safety issue.”
Independent Cllr Ollie Clooney called on the Council to “carry out urgent repairs on the boundary wall at the playground in Durrow.”
Speaking at the March meeting of the Borris-in-Ossory-Mountmellick Municipal District, Cllr Clooney insisted the wall in question “is going to fall soon; even a strong gust of wind could take it down.”
Cllr Clooney stressed the importance of the issue saying those most vulnerable to a collapse are the children attending the playground.
This was strongly supported by fellow Independent Cllr James Kelly, who pointed out how much of an attraction climbing walls can be for young children.
Fine Gael Cllr John King also supported the motion, saying the wall is on “a very busy stretch of road.”
But Mr James Dowling, Senior Executive Engineer said that the Council’s responsibility was limited to maintaining the equipment at the playground and that the site is provided by the Durrow community.
However, Mr Dowling went on to say that Council staff would “review the issue” and “examine potential solutions.”
Cllr Clooney also asked that the Council erect new welcome signs in Cullohill.
Mr Dowling said Council Area staff will meet with Cllr Clooney to discuss the proposed signage.
Cllr Kelly urged the Council to engage with the local community on the design of the proposed signage.
Cllr Clooney’s final motion of the meeting was to call for road repairs on the Durrow Road in Ballacolla “opposite Hayes Pub.”
Mr Dowling said Council maintenance crews will “attend this road in the coming weeks.”
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