Mixed reaction to Strokestown enhancement plans

Enhancement plans for Strokestown have met with a mixed response from the public.

At a recent public meeting the proposed Strokestown Public Realm Enhancement Scheme was outlined. The plans include alternations to the existing road carriageway widths and roundabout dimensions, the provision of footpaths, along with shared pedestrian and cycle routes as well as the provision of controlled and uncontrolled pedestrian crossing facilities.

The plans also propose relocating the bus stop from Bridge Street to Church Street and making alterations to the existing parking provision. Also included are soft landscaping works, the provision of trees, shrubs and green space, street furniture, signage, road markings and public lighting.

Jonathan Cassidy, Communications Officer for the local Town Team explained that the meeting was an information one to set out for the public the details of the plan.

He said the development of Church Street, which will have an impact on Bridge Street, is welcome as this area has been hampered by flooding due to the layout of the town.

There are two hills leading from the North West and West, which is causing bad flooding as the rain water system has not been upgraded for many, many years.

He said the changes to footpaths were welcomed as this would make them more accessible for people with difficulties.

However, he said the proposal to put islands between trees would reduce access onto the road, particularly at the secondary school, which accommodates over 600 students. “If the flow of that control has just one entry and exit it is not going to work,” he said.

He also highlighted the issue of parking at Pound Street saying this would merely be a “storage “ area for parked cars.

The plan also includes the creation of a reimagined scheme developed for Bawn Street, which will provide a visual and physical link to Strokestown Park House recognising the traditional/period character of the house and will be sympathetic to this in terms of lighting, street furniture, materiality and style.

The Town Team is encouraging anyone who may have concerns or opinions on the Part 8 planning to submit their proposals to the council before November 3rd at 5 p.m..

A Part 8 development involves a formal application, a public consultation process, a chief executive’s report and final approval by councillors of the proposal.