In an effort to “introduce more biodiversity” into urban Portlaoise, Laois County Council are to begin converting concrete spaces into soft landscaping.
Fine Gael Councillor Paddy Buggy initially asked the Council to consider convertig a concrete area at the junction of the Borris Road and the Dublin Road in Portlaoise.
The area in question is adjacent to St Peter and Paul’s Catholic Church, in front of Matthew Keegan’s funeral home.
Cllr Buggy said a soft land scaping area would “both introduce biodiversity and soften the view in this very busy part of Portlaoise.”
Speaking at the February meeting of the Portlaoise Municipal District, the Fine Gael Councillor said: “we need to introduce more biodiversity into our urban settings.
Mr Wes Wilkinson, Senior Executive Engineer, said the District Office “will examine the location,” view to having the works carried out “before Summer of this year.”
Mr Wilkinson proposed the inclusion of pollinator-friendly planting with the soft landscaped area to further enhance biodiversity.
Cllr Buggy then turned his attention to the Portlaoise to Mountmellick N80 Road, first asking that Laois County Council arrange for the cutting and breasting of the trees at the turn-off to the Kyletalesha Waste Management facility.
Cllr Buggy also asked that the Council write to the TII requesting the installation of areas for slow-moving vehicles to pull in along the road.
Mr Wilkinson confirmed District Office has made arrangements for the cutting back of overhanging vegetation along the road in order to address issues arising from the recent severe weather events.
Meanwhile, Mr Simon Walton, Director of Services, said a letter will be sent to the TII regarding potential pull-in areas.
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