LATEST: Two locations in this Kildare town could face closure due to health and safety concerns

A set of archways located on the Main Street of one County Kildare town could face closure due to health and safety concerns.

Concerns regarding the Francis Street and Thomas Street Laneways, both of which are located in Newbridge, were previously raised by Social Democrats councillor Chris Pender back in September and October of last year.

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During these times, he outlined his closure request — specifically, he asked Kildare County Council (KCC) to 'commence the statutory process under the Roads Act 1993 and the Road Traffic Act 1994 to: publish a Notice of Intention to permanently close the arched sections of Francis Street and Thomas Street to vehicles; to carry out the required public consultation and Garda consultation; and to make the necessary orders to ensure these archway roads are pedestrian-only, with exceptions for emergency access if required'.

And now, at the latest Kildare-Newbridge Municipal District meeting (which took place on Wednesday, April 15 last), he motioned for KCC to  issue a report to the members 'on the current status of Motion KN09 / 1025 (October 2025), regarding the proposed closure of the archways at the Francis Street and Thomas Street Laneways'.

According to Cllr Pender's motion, he wanted KCC to include details 'of any assessments undertaken, engagement carried out, decisions made and indicative timelines, if any'.

His motion was seconded by Fine Gael Cllr Peggy O'Dwyer.

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Replying to Cllr Pender's motion, KCC said via the report it issued at the meeting: "Following a meeting on site in Newbridge on March 3 last, the team is currently drafting potential options based on these discussions."

Cllr Pender subsequently told KCC that he welcomed the contents of the report, and thanked KCC for its willingness to investigate the matter.

"I welcome the fact that this [matter] progressing," he added.

Social Democrats Cllr Chris Pender. File photograph

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