Two Sinn Féin election candidates, one basesd in Louth, the other from Meath, have come together to address an issue which has been a blight on an area known as McEvoy’s Lane, between Elmwood Estate, under the railway bridge to the rear of Lagavoreen.
The problem according to Drogheda candidate Joanne Thompson is that one part of the laneway is in County Louth and the other end is in County Meath with neither authority jumping to claim responsibility for it.
Ms Thompson said “The path is widely used by young and old and in recent years has been kept clear by residents, community and sporting groups. However, it’s time for joined up thinking here and both Local Authorities need to work together and maintain this laneway to an acceptable standard.”
“I’ve engaged extensively with residents who live in Elmwood and have heard first-hand how much this pathway is used. It services schools, sports clubs, and indeed many workers in the area. There is a prime opportunity here for Louth County Council to support Meath County Council in revitalising this area to the benefit of residents that live in both jurisdictions.
“This project needs to be a priority for the Active Travel teams in both Councils, collectively there is an opportunity here to show how collaboration can work and improve the day to day lives of so many.”
Seamus Lynch, Candidate for Laytown-Bettystown LEA said: “All too often, Meath people living in the wider Drogheda area are forgotten. There is great potential here for both Councils to work together and deliver positive change. I am committed to pushing this forward and making it a priority going forward.
“Together we will continue to keep this on the agenda until it has been resolved to the satisfaction of those who live in the area. However, whilst I believe current Councillors will support this endeavour, the officials that serve both Louth and Meath along with the Active Travel Teams need to appreciate the benefits it will bring and work together to revitalise this area which has been badly neglected for so long. The time for passing the buck is over.”
