'Insult added to injury' in big Laois town

Public transport, bicyle lanes and footpaths are inadequate in Graiguecullen according to the Labour Party's local election candidate for the town.

Graiguecullen Portarlington Municipal District hopeful Eoin Barry wants more done for people in the big Laois community that borders Carlow town.

"The current provision of a public bus routes in Graiguecullen is inadequate to meet the needs of the people living in the area. Recently a town bus has started locally but the Laois side of Graiguecullen is poorly served by the routes selected, with housing estates like Rockford Manor, Fruithill Manor, Spindlewood, Meadows Way, Cill an Oir, Highfeild Manor and Crossneen Manor far from the nearest stop.

“Despite significant Government funding for the service there are no stops near St Fiacc’s National School, Shamrock Business Park or near Saplings School which is due to open in the near future.

“This has a significant impact on local people and reduces the ability of people to access shops and services locally and is particularly impactful on those with reduced mobility or without access to a car.

“To add insult to injury we know that Graiguecullen received none of the recently allocated €3 million in funding for active travel grants which was provided to Co Laois. The grant was badly needed to provide cycle lanes on the N80 and on the road to the school.

"Increased public transport and cycle lanes are needed to help reduce the significant traffic issues which are present in the area particularly at the junction at the Leighlin road. With the expanded orbital road not likely to happen for many years it is clear that an active travel and public transport plan is needed now. MORE BELOW PICTURE.

“This is just another example of the failure of our councillors to deliver for people in our area over the last five years. We have made a submission calling for expanded public transport and active travel in Graiguecullen in the Development plan. If I am elected in the local election on June 7 I will work to ensure Graiguecullen gets its fair share of funding based on its growing population," concluded the statement.

Mr Barry is seeking one of six Port / Graigue seats available on Laois County Council.