Complaints over state of pavementsat Station Square

Councillors said the walkways on the newly redeveloped area is the topic of consternation amongst locals and tourists alike.

“I have had a number of complaints about the cleanliness of the footpaths in the newly redeveloped Station Square,” said Cllr Christine Alexander.

“In fact one artist who was performing in the pit area said he was absolutely mortified during his performance as people were struggling to find a clean place to sit.

It’s not painting a very good picture to have the place looking like this.

However, the Director of Environmental Sevices, Kieran Doherty, said the cost to maintain the pathways to such a level could cost up to £50,000 per year.

“It was always going to be a challenge to maintain the footpaths at the minute because of their light nature and the very dry weather, The cleansing staff have been working hard to clean the area, but to keep it right could cost up to £50,000 per annum.”

Alderman Norman Hillis said he recognised that council has to work to a budget, but added the problem was very noticeable.

“We haven’t had a summer like this in a long time what with the weather and the large number of visitors,” he said.

“In previous years the rain was never too far away to wash away any spillages but this hasn’t happened this year.

“I know we have to keep our budget in mind, but a lot of people have notiuced this,” added Ald Hillis.