Greens propose changes to New Street pedestrianisation plans

Dublin MEP Ciarán Cuffe and Fingal County Councillors Karen Power and David Healy have welcomed ‘public realm’ improvements proposed for New Street, Malahide, and say similar schemes should be rolled out in other towns around the county such as Swords, Skerries and Balbriggan.

Responding to the related public consultation, MEP Cuffe said the addition of new greenery, public seating, and upgraded streets surfaces would bring “renewed conviviality” to the village.

Commenting on his submission, MEP Cuffe said:

“Malahide thrives because it is animated by visitors who come from far and wide to experience its scenic beauty.

“This scheme has great potential to enhance that lively atmosphere by providing a safe and pleasant village centre which can be freely explored by people of all ages.”

MEP Cuffe also recommended some minor improvements to the design proposal:

“Pedestrian crossings are too few and far between along The Mall to the East of New Street, and the proliferation of on-street parking makes life difficult for cyclists.

“Until these issues are addressed, schemes such as this will continue to be controversial with local residents who feel they must depend on their cars to get around.

“New rules preventing bars and restaurants from playing music outdoors after 8:30pm may also be appropriate.”

Councillor Karen Power said:

“Fingal County Council have made great strides in improving public realm and active travel.

“New Street is a fantastic example of how the reallocation of road space can greatly enhance our public realm space and benefit our communities.

“Following the success of this project I look forward to working with David Storey and his team to produce something of a similar nature in my own ward of Balbriggan, Skerries, Loughshinny and Balrothery.”

Councillor David Healy said:

“The trial pedestrianisation of New Street during the pandemic demonstrated the value of making space in our towns for walking, cycling and spending time in the street.

“It is good to see the plans to repave the street with rain gardens and public seating, as well as cafe seating for local businesses.

“There are some improvements needed to the plan, particularly for the existing trees to be replaced as the new trees grow to substitute for them, not all at once as apparently proposed.”