Council moves to address complaints over 'grubby' street furniture in Limerick town

LIMERICK City and Council has moved to address concerns over the cleanliness of public tables and chairs in the square in Newcastle West.

At the October meeting of the Newcastle West Municipal District Cllr Tom Ruddle said the outdoor furniture is not being cleaned or maintained regularly and that there is "grass growing up through the cobbles".

In a written motion, he called on the local authority to put a system in place to address his concerns.

Speaking during the meeting he noted that during Covid-19, the area was maintained to a very high standard and was widely used by people working in the town, particularly at lunchtime.

In a written response to the motion, senior executive engineer John Sheehan stated there is a full-time street cleaner assigned to Newcastle West and that a 'suction sweeper' will now be deployed more frequently as a result of the issue being raised.

He added that some works have already been undertaken "in terms of grass and weed control". 

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Cllr Ruddle said it was important to “keep more of a handle on it” to ensure the square remains inviting for residents and visitors alike.

Supporting his colleague's motion, Cllr Michael Collins stated the public furniture in the town square has "gone grubby" and he proposed that a survey be carried out to assess whether the current tables and chairs are still fit for purpose.

This suggestion was agreed by the council and a report will be prepared for a future meeting.