COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

MEETING OF LUCAN / PALMERSTOWN / NORTH CLONDALKIN AREA COMMITTEE

Tuesday, June 27, 2023

QUESTION NO. 14

QUESTION: Councillor P. Gogarty

To ask the Chief Executive to outline, in policy terms, the rationale for providing additional lighting along footpaths in Parks such as Griffeen Valley and Tandy's Lane, given that quite a number of residents have queried the additional need, while noting previous comments by management in relation to protecting biodiversity and local wildlife; and if a statement can be made on the matter.

REPLY:

Lighting in parks and open spaces has only been provided where there are short links between residential areas or along designated commuter routes or lit Greenways, and where required in tandem with ecological survey and report and, in some cases, consultation with NPWS.  It is not considered safe to provide lighting in large parks or open space since persons could find themselves in a secluded area and vulnerable to anti-social elements who would be attracted by the public lighting.  Parks and open spaces should therefore not be used during darkness when alternative lit routes are available along public roads which are passively supervised by passing traffic.