Latest news with #DeclanPower
Irish Independent
2 days ago
- Climate
- Irish Independent
Concerns raised about seaweed build- up on Clogherhead beach
Speaking at the July meeting of Drogheda Borough District, Cllr, Declan Power highlighted the increasing levels of seaweed over recent months, which he said was not receding with the tide. He acknowledged there were environmental issues at play, but asked if Louth County Council could explore the possibility of removing a top layer of the seaweed and depositing it closer to the sand dunes, where it might act as 'a natural fertiliser.' "This would reduce the levels, and help the remaining seaweed to be taken out by the low tides there.' He warned that the warmer weather in July could worsen the situation at the beach, as it was already beginning to decompose, so strong odours are likely to develop, and the surface may become slippery. In response, Mark Johnston, Senior Engineer at Louth County Council, said that while it sounded a simple task to remove the seaweed, it was an ecologically sensitive area, and seaweed is a 'natural product of the sea.' He added that an appropriate assessment would need to be carried out as moving it to sand dunes 'would cause its own problems,' especially in SAC (Special Area of Conservation) zones.
Irish Independent
03-07-2025
- General
- Irish Independent
Louth beaches to have debris cleared by County Council
The assurance was given to Cllr Declan Power by David Hanratty, Senior Engineer and LCC's acting Director of Operations and Environmental Delivery. But the Council will also examine what steps can be taken to install protective boulders between Ganderstown and Clogherhead where the beach and coastline is under attack caused by a vulnerable sand bank. Councillor Power said: "This stretch of coastline has become increasingly unstable and the erosion is now clearly visible to myself and many others who frequent the area. "It is important that we act to safeguard this section of our natural heritage before further deterioration occurs. "Protecting our coastal assets is vital not only for the environment but for tourism and community well being." He said Louth County Council told him an assessment of the area will be carried out and appropriate protective measures considered. He also commended the ongoing work of local volunteer and community groups who maintain the beach areas to a high standard with regular litter picks that contribute to the Blue and Green Flag status. Cllr Power added: "The dedication of our community in keeping our beaches clean is commendable. "However the reality is that tidal movements continue to wash up heavy debris - items like fishing boxes, tyres and even car parts - which are simply beyond the capacity of volunteers to move. "I would like the Council to intervene and assist with the removal of this type of litter , possibly as part of their routine inspections of Life-saving equipment along the coastline."
Irish Independent
22-04-2025
- General
- Irish Independent
Clogherhead school set for safer future with new road plan
As part of the works planned at Callystown NS, new and upgraded footpaths and cycleways will be installed. The project will also include the introduction of safer pedestrian crossings, improved road markings and signage, and the addition of traffic signals, bollards and ramps at key locations throughout the area. The upgrades will be implemented within the current road and footpath layout to ensure minimal disruption and environmental impact. Welcoming the development, Cllr Declan Power, Drogheda Rural, said the improvements are the result of long-standing advocacy. 'As a resident and local Councillor for the area, I warmly welcome this development for the community of Clogherhead. I've been advocating for these road safety measures for several years, and I'm delighted to see them moving forward combined with the Safe Routes to School Programme.' He emphasised the importance of the school to the community and the necessity of ensuring safe access for students and families. 'Callystown National School is at the heart of village life, and ensuring our children can travel safely to and from school—and nearby amenities like the local playground—must always be a top priority,' said Cllr Power. He added that these upgrades would contribute to overall traffic calming, improve visibility, and create safer conditions not just for children bur also for older residents and those with limited mobility. 'These upgrades will help calm traffic, improve visibility, and make our roads safer for everyone, including older residents and those with limited mobility. It's a sensible, well-balanced project that enhances safety without altering the character of the area. I fully support these works and will continue to advocate for similar initiatives across the Drogheda and the Drogheda Rural district,' said Cllr Power. The works will also complement upcoming safety measures already planned for Chapel Road, including a raised pedestrian crossing and a traffic-calming ramp. In addition, Cllr Power noted he is actively seeking the installation of street lighting near the local playground to further improve safety in the area. Callystown NS is not the only school set to benefit, with Louth County Council confirming that Bellurgan NS in Dundalk and St Mary's NS in Knockbridge receiving similar road safety upgrades this year as part of the Safe Routes to School programme. Public consultation on the proposed works is now open. Residents and members of the public are invited to review the drawings and project details and provide feedback from Tuesday, April 22 to Tuesday, May 6. Documents are available for inspection at the Louth County Council Offices in the Millennium Centre, Dundalk, and at the Civic Offices on Fair Street, Drogheda. Information is also available online at Written submissions or observations must be clearly marked 'Section 38 Safe Routes to School – [School Name]'
