The changes, led by Social Democrats Councillor Bill Clear, have been met with mixed reactions.
A new traffic restriction in Naas has sparked debate among residents and motorists.
The introduction of bollards at the junction between Abbey Street and Basin Street aims to prevent vehicles from accessing the canal bank - between Abbey Bridge and Tandy’s Bridge and between Tandy's Bridge and Osberstown Bridge - a popular route long used by locals to avoid traffic in the town centre.
The changes, led by Social Democrats Councillor Bill Clear, have been met with mixed reactions.
Councillor Clear explained that the decision to implement these restrictions was part of a larger plan to enhance safety and promote active travel, including walking and cycling, along the canal.
“You’re not going to please everybody, but this area had become increasingly dangerous for pedestrians and cyclists. We’ve had several incidents, including a hit-and-run that left a person seriously injured,” Clear said.
The restrictions are part of the first phase of the Sallins Greenway project, which has been in the local area and county plans for years.
Despite the safety intentions behind the project, some residents are frustrated by the closure of the canal bank to through traffic, especially those who have used the route for years.
Speaking on Kildare Today, Councillor Clear acknowledged the inconvenience but emphasised the importance of prioritising safety, particularly for children walking to school.
The bollards installed are permanent, metal structures, replacing the temporary plastic ones used in other parts of the town.
“This is a permanent closure,” Clear confirmed, addressing public confusion about the nature of the bollards.
In addition to the bollards, concerns have been raised about ongoing traffic issues in Naas, particularly outside Dunnes Stores on Main Street.
A resident recently highlighted the dangers posed by motorists ignoring a new ‘No Right Turn’ sign, leading to accidents and near-misses.
Councillor Clear urged the public to comply with the traffic rules and called for increased enforcement by local authorities.
While the restrictions aim to create a safer environment for pedestrians and cyclists, they have also raised questions about the impact on drivers.
Councillor Clear acknowledged that these changes might frustrate some motorists, but he stressed the broader goal of making Naas a safer and more pleasant town for all its residents.
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