Outdoor seating area must be relocated to make way for a new pedestrian crossing despite previous relocation costing thousands.
The controversial parklet in Naas town centre is set to be moved for a second time as part of plans for a new pedestrian crossing.
The outdoor seating area has cost more than €50,000 to install, relocate and repair since it was first introduced, and has been the subject of debate since its arrival in the town.
The parklet was originally installed on North Main Street, opposite Fletcher's pub, before being relocated to Dublin Road after objections from some residents, business owners and local politicians.
Parklet on the Dublin Road, Naas. Images sent to Kfm by Bob Quinn
Former Green Party Councillor Bob Quinn said the original parklet cost €30,500, excluding VAT, while relocating it and carrying out repairs cost a further €22,000, according to figures provided by Kildare County Council.
Mr Quinn believes the parklet has never reached its full potential, arguing it could become a successful public space if the council adopted what he described as best practice seen in cities such as London, Paris and San Francisco.
Fine Gael Councillor Fintan Brett said parklets have been successful in many towns across Ireland but believes the current location, on a busy road carrying significant traffic, has limited its use.
He said planned road improvements at Murtagh's Cross and Gallops Avenue are expected to reduce heavy goods vehicles through Naas by around 15 per cent and overall traffic by 30 per cent, creating a more suitable environment for the parklet.
However, Kildare County Council has confirmed the structure will have to be relocated again to facilitate a new signal-controlled pedestrian crossing outside Meadows & Byrne.
The planned works include removing the parklet, relocating bicycle stands, installing tactile paving and new road markings.
Listen to the full interview here:
Kfm Obituary Notices
Naas Hospital Asks "Non-Urgent" Patients To Consider Other Healthcare Options Amid Busy Period
KCC And HSA Inspect Derelict Kilcock Site After Recent Fire
Irish Rail Fires Firm Behind Abandoned €50 Million IT System
Water Network Upgrades Completed In Maynooth
Kildare Family Resource Centres To Receive €10K Grants
Maynooth And Leixlip Residents Receive Land Acquisition Letters For DART+West
Meeting Planned Amid Concerns About Proposed Maganey Solar Farm
