COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

MEETING OF LUCAN AREA COMMITTEE

Tuesday, June 23, 2015

MOTION NO. 7

MOTION: Councillor G. O'Connell

"That the area around the bridges over the Mill Race in Waterstown Park be secured and made safe and that a risk assessment be carried out especially in relation to water hazards in this fine park and that suitable warning notices as well as reasonable deterrents are erected as appropriate"

REPORT:

There are 3 bridges in Waterstown Park which facilitate park users to cross the Mill Race. An assessment of the bridges has been undertaken and the findings are as follows:

The sides of the bridge at the east end of the Mill Race are constructed of 3 horizontal rails which are cladded with rigid wire mesh. There are additional panel at right angles to each end of the side rails which are parallel to the Mill Race. These are finished in a similar fashion with rigid wire mesh. There is no access to the Mill Race at this bridge.

The sides of the bridge in the centre of the Mill Race are constructed of limestone with a cock & hen type detail on top of each side. Wooden bollards have been fitted at each end of the bridge parallel to the Mill Race. There is no access to the Mill Race at this bridge.

The sides of the bridge at the west end of the Mill Race are constructed using 9-horizontal bar fence panels with handrail over. There is access to the river from the banks at both ends of the bridge. The provision of additional measures to deter access to the Mill Race in the vicinity of this bridge is currently being examined.

The Council Health and Safety Officer will carry out a Risk Assessment to determine the appropriate locations for signage and ring buoys.