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17 Apr 2026
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17 Apr 2026
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A Fine Gael councillor for Kildare North has called on the council to undertake a feasibility study for the development of a nature/biodiversity trail in the woodlands in Riverforest Estate in Leixlip.
Cllr Paul Brooks tabled his motion at the April meeting of Celbridge Leixlip Municipal District, held on Friday, April 17 last.
Cllr Brooks' motion stated that the Leixlip nature/biodiversity trail would include associated walkways, signage and benches.
Speaking at the meeting, Cllr Brooks explained he lived in the Riverforest Estate, and pointed to the “fantastic amenity on our doorstep” that was the Riverforest woodlands.
He said this was an under-utilised amenity with a wide range of biodiversity, and the rationale behind his motion was that a nature/biodiversity trail could link into other walkways in the area.
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Cllr Brooks said he read the council's report, but would like like to see his request progressed, at least in terms of a feasibility study.
Cathaoirleach Cllr Rupert Heather (LAB) said he “fully supported” Cllr Brooks' motion.
He alluded to the benefits of a nature/biodiversity trail to the local community, and said that providing pathways, signage, etc would be of “minimal cost” to the council, so that there should be nothing preventing such a project.
A council official stated that while it would not be possible to pursue such a project at the moment, it would certainly be “kept in the crosshair” for a future works programme.
Following questions raised in council, a second official pointed out that the land in question is not under the ownership of KCC, though it may be under the charge of the council.
A report issued by the council stated: “There is no objection in principle to undertaking a study, however, the scope of work involved would need to be discussed further.
“There is no capacity to undertake the study this year. Any work involved would have to be considered for a future works programme.”
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