COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

MEETING OF CLONDALKIN AREA COMMITTEE

Wednesday, November 17, 2010

MOTION NO. 10

MOTION: Councillor T. Delaney

That this Committee in the interest of public safety strongly urges the erection of protective fencing on the ditch side of the canal walkway between the 9th and 10th Locks similar to that installed from Grange Castle towards the 12th Lock.

REPORT:

The Grand Canal Way Green Route 3rd Lock to 12th Lock was developed by an inter-agency group consisting of Waterways Ireland, South Dublin County Council, Dublin City Council, and the ESB and this green route has been delivered with a high level of safety and security for both users and adjoining residents as a priority.

It should be noted that prior to the route being developed the ditch along the entire walkway was left open and in its natural state.  However, in the interest of safety and because of the close proximity of neighbouring properties the area between the 9th and 10th locks has been given close attention and consideration during the construction of the route.  In consultation with the local residents an additional landscaping scheme was agreed and implemented of mixed densely populated semi mature trees, multi stem shrubs and whip planting.  This planting stretches along the entire length of the overflow ditch and the growth of trees and shrubs would break a fall in the event of someone falling off the towpath whilst also protecting the privacy of adjoining properties.  The provision of a side rail could also attract anti-social behaviour at this location due to the close proximity of rear garden walls.

In the interest of health and safety the consultants recommended the provision of a side rail in the vicinity of Grange Castle because of the steep incline from the towpath to the bottom of the ditch and the growth of trees and shrubs at this location is not as rapid and is poorer than in other areas along the route.  There is also insufficient space to plant trees on the line of the ditch because of the steep incline. The incline of the ditch from 9th to 10th locks is not as great as the level difference in the Grange Castle area.

Waterways Ireland has asked for access to be maintained to the ditch for clearing purposes in the event of debris occurring and the ditch acts as an overflow should the canal breach it's bank.