Works have commenced on the removal of the kissing gate which is located near the bridge in Ballyloughane said Independent Councillor Terry O’Flaherty.
She said that this is something that she has been working on for some time now particularly to make it accessible for wheelchair users and buggies to access the pathway to beach at Ballyloughane.
The kissing gate at this location has been preventing wheelchair users getting to the safe path — and because the narrow road to the beach is so busy, they had been left with no option but to go all the way round where the houses are located in the village to access the beach.
“This has been a very worrying situation as some motorists drive at excess speed along this narrow roadway and as people’s safety is of paramount importance, the works must be given top priority.
“The engineer responsible for these works visited the site to meet me on two occasions last March/April to have a look at the gate and he is very aware that this needs urgent attention,” added Cllr O’Flaherty.
She had received confirmation from the Council that action would be taken by the local authority.
“The Active Travel Section is committed to upgrade the kissing gate at this location to provide unhindered access to the walkway without compromising safety on Ballyloughan Road,” said an email from a Senior Executive Engineer.
Cllr O’ Flaherty said that while these works have taken some time, however she would like to thank most sincerely the engineer in charge for carrying out the necessary works required on such an important job like this which will be welcomed by all in particular wheelchair users who frequent Ballyloughane on a daily basis, she added.
