Trees obstructing traffic and pedestrians in Laois housing estates

Trees planted in Laois housing estates are reportedly forcing drivers out into the road to get around them, as well as obstructing pedestrians on footpaths.

The Portarlington estates of Ballymorris Manor and Whitefields are one of many, claims Cllr Aidan Mullins, where trees were planted in inappropriate places.

"We've all seen trees in estates that are probably not appropriate for the locations they were put in. In Ballymorris Manor and Whitefields, trees are forcing traffic out around them on the road. Low hanging branches are on paths and impeding drivers as well," he said.

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He tabled a motion to the November meeting of the Graiguecullen / Portarlington Municipal District, asking that Laois County Council carry out surveys of the trees in housing estates, "to identify those causing obstruction to pedestrians and road users and arrange to have them cut back".

Laois County Council has agreed to carry out surveys, and to cut back any trees that are obstructing footpaths or roads.