COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

MEETING OF LUCAN AREA COMMITTEE

Tuesday, June 23, 2015

MOTION NO. 3

MOTION: Councillor W. Lavelle, Councillor V. Casserly

"That this Area Committee calls on the Chief Executive to examine the feasibility of reopening the historic pedestrian tunnel running from the grounds of the Spa Hotel Lucan through to Lucan Demesne (reportedly blocked-up but not destroyed during construction of the N4 Lucan bypass) so as connect the hotel complex and the Demesne, making it more accessible for visitors."

REPORT:

As part of the recent N4 Upgrade, a safe, efficient pedestrian route was provided between the Spa Hotel and Lucan Demesne, via the steps near the Annadale on the oldCelbridge Road, and this route is operating without any problems. 

The remaining extent of the former tunnel is unknown. Given that the current width of the N4 footprint is some five times that of the original road, any plan to reinstate / extend the tunnel would involve significant cost, require the buy-in of the NRA and Spa Hotel, and have to overcome possible planning issues. Given the current economic climate, it is advised that it would be premature to propose such a development.