Green Party Dún Laoghaire: 'The Metals' Submission 14 May 2010

The Green Party Dún Laoghaire support the Council's proposed upgrade of The
Metals Walkway.

We welcome proposals to upgrade the existing pedestrian crossings and the

installation of new signalised crossings, which will make the route safer for all
users.

The Council should use best standards when designing, building and maintaining
the route to ensure that The Metals works well for all users. The emphasis should
be placed on low-speed and the shared-use of the walkway. The Council should
consider signs warning cyclists to slow down for the safety of pedestrians. Proper
design should reduce the need for an over reliance on traffic markings.

The new surface should be suitable for all users of The Metals, including those on
rollerblades, parents with buggies and skateboarders.

Measures to improve the route for mobility and visually impaired users are very
welcome. Special consideration should be given to the removal of overhanging
obstacles such as low-hanging branches along the route and adequate resources
must be provided to ensure its subsequent upkeep.

The Council should provide energy efficient street lighting to improve the safety
of those using the path at night. Any lighting should be directional and reduce the
impact of light pollution on the surrounding areas.

Management measures must be put in place for the prevention and cleaning of
dog dirt, the prevention and removal of graffiti and proper litter management.
The Council should consider placing dog litterbins along the route to encourage
proper disposal.

The Council should consider planting on The Metals to improve biodiversity and
make the route more enjoyable for users.

As regards signage the Green Party recommends that low-key small signs are
used and that road markings are kept to a minimum. The Party has previously
expressed its concern at the over-scaled signs that the Council erected outside
the Forty Foot swimming location at Sandycove.