East Meath Fianna Fail Councillor, Stephen McKee, has expressed his satisfaction with the beginning of what will be a new Public Realm Plan for Duleek.

McKee stated that at Monday’s Council meeting, qualified students from Queen’s University Belfast who are collaborating with the Planning Section of Meath County Council, made an impressive presentation outlining their ideas on how to improve and enhance all the public spaces in Duleek.

These included street layout and how best to create a functional and pleasant environment in which to live, shop and interact for everyone.

‘It is clear to me that we need a co-ordinated approach to develop public infrastructure in the village, improve the environment for local business to flourish and enhance the quality of life for local residents” McKee said.

“It will be important that adequate funding is provided to ensure the work is fully carried out.

“How we manage traffic and road safety in Duleek is one major issue. I would like to see the completion of the Main Street Traffic Management Plan as soon as possible and a new pedestrian crossing down at Londis.

“Traffic calming is badly needed also on the Station Road, on the Longford Road, the Navan Road and out at Duleek Soccer Club at Carranstown.

“There are just far too many HGV's coming through the village. Long-term, the Bypass is critical.

“I am also seeking to secure funding under the national 'Safe Routes To School Programme' to make the route safer from the centre of Duleek out to the National Schools and to include a full cycle lane. 

“It has been confirmed that there will be consultation amongst the general public and everyone will soon have an opportunity to have their say on the new Public Realm Plan which is exciting news for the area.”