Dumping, Alleged Assaults And Intimidation: Celbridge Residents Demand Action At Abbey Car Park

Friday, 10 January 2025 10:33

By Martin Osborne

Fine Gael Cllr Lumi Panaite Fahey told Kfm that some locals feel "intimidated" by the current situation and believe that barriers would help prevent illegal encampments.

Barriers need to be reinstated at the Abbey car park in Celbridge, according to a local Cllr.

The barriers, which were previously in place, were removed and have not been replaced, raising concerns among residents and local businesses.

Fine Gael Cllr Lumi Panaite Fahey told Kfm that some locals feel "intimidated" by the current situation and believe that barriers would help prevent illegal encampments.

She also alleged that incidents of assault have been reported to Gardai in Leixlip by members of the local community.

Local businesses have also expressed their concerns, with representations on their behalf submitted to Kildare County Council.

Despite being informed by the council that action would be taken, Cllr Fahey said no progress has been made.

She plans to raise the issue again at an upcoming Municipal District meeting on January 17th.

Celbridge Tidy Towns has also weighed in, calling for the reinstatement of height restriction barriers.

The group suggested that those requiring official access with high vehicles should be provided with a key.

Their comments follow incidents of illegal dumping at the site.

A spokesperson for Kildare County Council said the council are currently working with the carpark owner to address ongoing issues.

They said "arrangements regarding access to the carpark need to be agreed with the owner."

One local said: "Shocking and cannot believe the council are letting this happen over and over again."

Another said: "It also puts the carpark totally out of use, put it this way, if you were going for a pint or a meal and leaving the car overnight because you fancy a drink, would you leave it in there?"