To whom it may concern,

As a resident of Dangan Terrace, I welcome the proposed pedestrian and traffic calming improvements for the area. In particular, the provision of improved footpaths, safer crossings, junction upgrades, landscaping and traffic calming measures are positive additions for residents and pedestrians using this approach into and out of Thomastown.

I would, however, like to raise a number of points for consideration as part of the final design process.

Public Realm Improvements Along Dangan Terrace

Given that the scheme includes landscaping and amenity enhancements, I believe consideration should also be given to the existing concrete boundary wall and railings running along Dangan Terrace.

At present, the concrete boundary wall is stained, weathered and has cracking in at least one location, while many of the railings are rusted and in poor condition. Cleaning the wall, repairing the damage, removing rust from the railings and repainting them would significantly improve the appearance of the area and complement the wider public realm improvements proposed under the scheme.

Residential Parking Provision

I would also like to draw attention to the current parking situation at Dangan Terrace. A number of residents rely on the existing informal parking area and roadside space at the lower end of the terrace, near the Inistioge Road/Graignamanagh Road junction, as many homes do not have driveways or off-street parking available. While the proposed landscaping and build-outs are welcome, it is important that the scheme does not unintentionally remove the limited parking opportunities currently available to residents.

I would ask that careful consideration be given to how parking can continue to be accommodated for residents who presently park along the residential slipway area adjacent to the junction.

Tight Access and Turning Movements at Dangan Terrace

I would also like to make some observations that may be of interest regarding vehicle access into and out of Dangan Terrace at the Graignamanagh Road side.

The Graignamanagh Road entrance is the main entrance used by residents and is already extremely tight for vehicles wishing to turn in. If possible, it may be worth examining whether the turning radius could be improved, potentially through alterations to the existing wall or boundary treatment at the entrance.

In addition, many visitors and delivery drivers unfamiliar with Dangan Terrace tend to enter from the Inistioge Road side, which is the route suggested by Google Maps. However, when drivers then attempt to exit via the Graignamanagh Road side, visibility is extremely poor and vehicles must edge out cautiously into potentially fast-moving traffic. I appreciate that the scheme already proposes junction tightening and traffic calming measures, but I believe this particular access and visibility issue deserves specific consideration to ensure the junction operates safely for both residents and through traffic.

Additional Street Lighting at Proposed Raised Crossing

I would also ask for consideration to be given to additional public lighting in the vicinity of the proposed raised pedestrian crossing near the Graignamanagh Road/Inistioge Road junction. Given the road geometry, traffic speeds on approach to the town, and the darker conditions experienced during winter months, enhanced lighting would improve visibility for both pedestrians and approaching drivers.

Overall, I support the objectives of the scheme and appreciate the investment being made in pedestrian infrastructure and traffic calming in the area. I hope the above points can be considered as part of the final design process.

Kind regards,
Christopher Dunne

Section 38 for Enhanced Pedestrian Facilities and Traffic Calming Measures in Thomastown, Co. Kilkenny - Submissions

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