Kildare residents want walkway through neighbouring estate

A group of residents are appealing for a footpath to link their estate with an adjoining development.

The request has been described as a health and safety issue by local councillor and Naas mayor Fintan Brett.

The residents, who live in Rochford Green, Kill, say that a walkway linking their estate, which has some 140 homes, to Glendara would provide a shorter route to the main main street in the village.

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It would also provide easier access to shops and the bus stop.

A resident told Kildare Now that while there was an objection to this, the original plans for the development included the pathway.

The resident also said that there is concern for the safety of children , who may be placing themselves at risk of injury by negotiating metal railings in the area to access the bus stop in order to get to school.

“We have seen teens fall , catch their skin on the railings leading to deep cuts, ripped clothing. Sometimes younger kids try to get through by squeezing through the bars on their way to see their friends with some getting stuck because they are not able to climb over so they slide under again getting scratched in the process. It’s not safe at all.”

The residents said it was understood there is a wider proposal to have all estates linked by paths to keep children safer as they walk to school or to meet friends “instead of having to walk on narrow enough paths along the busy main roads.”

Cllr Brett said: "This is a health and safety issue for children. If the pathway was built it would take the children through the safer confines of a residential area.”

The developer, Pavement Homes, was contacted for comment.