Wicklow Sinn Féin local election candidate for the Arklow local electoral area Warren O’Toole has called on Wicklow County Council to act to erect a safety railing around the footpath outside the Corner Public House in the town.
Concerns have been raised by business owners, parents, and students in the area regarding the safety of pedestrians, particularly at peak school travel times.
It is only a matter of time before there is an accident in the area if something is not done to protect pedestrians at the corner.
Warren O’ Toole said:
“I have been in contact with an engineer from Wicklow County Council in relation to the dangers posed to pedestrians at the Corner House Pub in Arklow, due to the absence of a railing around the footpath, despite the fact that there is one directly across the road.
There is a blind spot here on the road which represents a real danger to pedestrians, especially school children who tend to gather in large groups who often step out onto the road.
I have talked to business owners, parents and students in the area, and they are all concerned at the fact that a number of incidents have already taken place at the site, and believe that if action is not taken, we can be assured that there will be a serious accident before long.
Arklow is a town that continues to grow, and as it does, there is a need for the development of a more proactive and concerted approach towards basic infrastructure to allow it to keep pace with development.
And above all safety must be at the forefront of all planning.
I again, call on Wicklow County Council to erect the railing on the footpath around the pavement at the Corner House Pub, before a serious accident occurs.”