Urgent Action Needed: Kilkenny Residents Face ‘Death Trap’ to Bus Stop

BREAKING: Kilkenny City councillors have raised urgent alarms over a perilous situation for residents attempting to access bus stops, labeling the area a “death trap.” The alarming conditions affect residents in Shandon Park and surrounding neighborhoods, who are forced to cross a hazardous stretch of the Dublin Road to reach critical public transport.

Strong concerns were voiced during the latest municipal meeting, where Cllr Eugene McGuinness emphasized the dangers faced by elderly residents. “We have put people in a position on the Dublin Road at Shandon Park where we are encouraging the elderly to walk across a major Ring Road to get a bus,” he stated, expressing deep regret over the current arrangements.

This urgent situation demands immediate action, as city officials grapple with how to improve accessibility for vulnerable populations. “It’s insane. Surely we could re-route because the bus system goes up the Dublin Road but it doesn’t pick up anyone,” Cllr McGuinness added, highlighting the need for a revised bus route to ensure safety for all passengers.

The issue extends beyond just bus access. Cllr McGuinness also addressed the growing problem of illegal parking, which has made navigating local housing estates increasingly difficult for residents. “We have to take a very strict view of illegal parking,” he stated, calling for more robust enforcement measures.

Echoing these sentiments, Cllr Andrew McGuinness shared his firsthand experience walking with elderly residents to the bus stop, describing the journey as a “bloody death trap.” He expressed disbelief that citizens should have to risk their safety just to access public transport, saying, “If they want to get that bus, they have to cross that road. They’re taking their lives into their own hands.”

In response to these critical issues, Tim Butler, Director of Services with Kilkenny County Council, acknowledged the pressing need for solutions in Shandon Park. However, he noted that any modifications to the local bus services, specifically the KK1 and KK2 routes, must await the completion of a Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan (SUMP). Until that process concludes, immediate changes remain “unviable,” he explained.

Residents and officials alike are left in a state of urgency as they await the outcome of discussions around transport solutions and safety improvements. The situation underscores the critical need for immediate action to protect vulnerable residents in Kilkenny City.

As community leaders call for swift measures, the public is encouraged to share their thoughts on this urgent issue. What changes do you believe are necessary to ensure the safety of Kilkenny’s residents?

This developing story will be updated as more information emerges. Stay tuned for further developments on the Kilkenny transport crisis.