Residents must be consulted on Lucan projects, says councillor

The recently announced works that aim to improve Lucan village and turn it into a “Destination Town” have been welcomed by Sinn Fein councillor Derren Ó Brádaigh but says that local residents and businesses must be consulted before the project can begin.

The Lucan-Palmerstown representative said that “the recent announcement awarding Lucan Village “Destination Town” status is very much welcomed.

“The council are now proposing a series of project works that seek to make Lucan Village a more inviting place to both visit and enjoy for everyone,” he says.

“However, it is crucial that any works seeking to “enhance” the village experience take stock of the views of those rooted and trading in the village, but also understanding the logistical challenges for all surrounding residents that frequent the village for essential needs.”

Ó Brádaigh says that many residents have approached him and asked about the upcoming works.

“The detail for three specific projects will go to public consultation ahead of Christmas, after which agreement on the designs will be brought before the council for a final decision in early 2022,” he says.

“The three locations identified for works are the Liffey weir side at Lucan Bridge, the Village Green and the Lucan Desmesne entrance.

“I have received a lot of approaches from folks with questions and concerns in recent weeks about the projects and this is understandable.

“I am advising and encouraging everyone that wishes to see our village progress in a sustainable and attractive way, to engage in the public consultation process.

“Separate to these works, the council are at a very early concept stage of exploring a trialling period for a one-way traffic system along main street between the Village Green and Lucan Liffey Bridge.”

The potential pilot scheme is one many similar projects being undertaken by councils in Dublin – such as in Dun Laoghaire and Sandymount.

“Whilst I understand there have been some preliminary engagements by the council, there is no timeline or design agreement for this,” Ó Brádaigh says.

“If and when a trial period does occur, it is imperative that this is preceded by a fully inclusive consultation process that listens to the opinions of every stakeholder in examining all potential impacts of such a traffic re-arrangement for the better or worse.

“Anyone can make a submission to the consultation process once it opens.

“This can be to express a concern, make an objection or to field a suggestion and I am encouraging everyone to do just that.”