‘Rural locals in Kildare cannot be forgotten when it comes to public transport’ — Councillor

A Fianna Fáil councillor has urged Kildare County Council (KCC) ‘not to forget’ about rural locals when it comes to the provision of public transport.

Cllr Noel Heavey relayed his point to KCC representatives present at the latest Kildare-Newbridge Municipal District (MD) meeting, which was held on Wednesday, June 21 last.

He motioned for KCC to 'outline Sustainable Transport options to connect the communities of Caragh, Clongorey District and Tankardsgarden to the self sustaining town of Newbridge.'

Speaking directly to a KCC representative, Cllr Heavey said: "I would urge the council to put these links in rural areas, and if I recall correctly, there was a plan on another council (meeting) to link the linear park as a far as Tankardsgarden.

"That needs to come back into play," he added.

In response to his motion, KCC noted the following in its report at the meeting: "Local Link has recently launched their new 821 Route which offers a bus service from the Sallins and Naas Train Station to Newbridge, with new stops located in the village of Caragh.

"The Council has contacted Local Link with regards to any future plans to extend their service routes to the districts of Clongorey and Tankardsgarden, and are awaiting an update."

Cllr Heavey's sentiments were echoed by his party colleague Cllr Rob Power at the meeting.