His comments come as Kildare County Council announce that it has decided to allow the HSE to extend the planning permission for a significant extension of Naas General Hospital.
The extension would include a new endoscopy/day services unit as well as Physical medicine and oncology departments.
James commented, “The extension of planning is welcome. However it also serves to highlight the HSE have stalled on this project since the original planning was granted in 2014. The endoscopy unit in particular is badly needed, I have visited the hospital to inspect existing facilities and I have raised this on the floor of the Dail with Minister Simon Harris. Whilst the planning is key and I welcome this decision, it is imperative that the HSE now press ahead with funding and concrete plans to develop this needed extension.”
At yesterday’s Maynooth Clane Municpal District meeting, councillors were presented with the submissions received from the public and from other interested groups in relation to the Part 8 (Public Consultation) on the Maynooth Ring Road. The council submitted their report in the form of a “Chief Executives Report”, by means of which they outline their reasons for particular parts of the projects.
During the meeting, Councillor Naoise O’Cearuil raised the concerns enumerated below that had been raised with him by members of the public with a reply where appropriate. It should be noted that many of the issues that have been submitted will be dealt with later at design stage. Responses from Naoise are also included.
1. That a 30km zone be implemented on approach to Griffin Rath hall & Manor – They don’t think this is possible as it will be a main road but will ask the County Speed Limit review committee to look at it. They said that the curvature in the road, traffic lights and ramps should slow the traffic down considerably however.
2. That noise reducing asphalt is used on the road – This will be done.
3. That the shared space approaching the new bridge for pedestrians and cyclists is not ideal – We were told that this was unavoidable as there isn’t enough room for completely segregated areas at this location leading up to the bridge.
4. That a table top ramp be placed outside Griffin Rath Hall with a yellow box – This will be done.
5. That roundabouts be used instead of traffic lights – They will not allow roundabouts as they are dangerous for pedestrians and cyclists
6. That there are railings in front of pedestrian entrances to estates to stop children from running onto a busy road – This will be done.
7. That walls along the route are an adequate height and are stone walls in keeping with the surroundings – The roads department have recommended this to the planning department. Following this stage there will be a detailed landscaping plan and we will be able to address many other issues at this stage.
Cllr Naoise O’Cearuil was part of a deputation from Maynooth of local politicians and school principals that met Minister for Education Joe McHugh TD today ongoing issues with Maynooth schools.
You can see Naoise’s video blog about the meeting here
Frank O’Rourke TD has welcomed the announcement that a footpath and cycle track will be provided on the Moyglare Road in Maynooth.
Frank commented, “I have made representations, on behalf of the residents on the Moyglare Road, to have a footpath and a cycle track provided on the Moyglare Road. Given the growth in residential properties and the new secondary schools coming on stream together with the existing houses and GAA Club this is an important piece of infrastructure. This work is planned to be completed by September/October of this year.We must continue to provide adequate footpaths to encourage people to walk and cycle.”
