COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

South Dublin County Council Crest

MEETING OF CLONDALKIN, NEWCASTLE, RATHCOOLE, SAGGART AND BRITTAS AREA COMMITTEE

Wednesday, June 17, 2026

MOTION NO.15

MOTION: Councillor E. Ó Broin

That this Area Committee agrees to find a solution to have the footpaths of Main St., Clondalkin, cleaned of grease and grime build-up.

REPORT:

A daily cleaning programme is in operation in Clondalkin Village, focused primarily on the removal of litter and general upkeep of public spaces. This programme is delivered by operational staff using a pedestrian-operated “green machine”.  This machine has 2 mechanical brushes to sweep and collect litter and debris and includes an integrated waste receptacle for efficient disposal.  A water spray feature to enhance general cleaning effectiveness is also available.  This equipment ensures a consistent standard of cleanliness in public areas and pedestrian pathways.

While effective for routine maintenance, the green machine It is not capable of removing grease or ingrained staining on granite paving.  The treatment of such staining requires specialist methods which may involve high-pressure hot water cleaning.  As a result, certain areas of granite paving have developed visible staining that cannot be addressed through routine cleaning practices.

A full deep cleaning programme for granite paving has been assessed but is not recommended for the following reasons.  The financial outlay associated with a comprehensive deep clean would be significant.  Granite surfaces naturally weather and dull over time due to footfall and environmental exposure.  Deep cleaning requires large volumes of water, which would not align with County Development Plan objectives relating to sustainability, climate action, and the promotion of a low-carbon, climate-resilient county.

Considering the above constraints, a targeted cleaning strategy is considered the most appropriate and viable approach. The Public Realm Section is currently reviewing suitable methods for the maintenance of hard surfaces, with particular emphasis on the effective removal of stubborn stains and marks. An inspection of granite paving along Main Street will be carried out and a list of locations requiring intervention will be compiled for targeted cleaning using appropriate specialist techniques where required.