Kildare County Council asked to explore feasibility of shuttle service for this region

Kildare County Council (KCC) has been asked to explore the feasibility of providing a shuttle service for one North Kildare region.

The request was made by a councillor representing the Clane-Maynooth Municipal District (MD) at the latest MD meeting, which took place on Friday, December 5 last.

Specifically, Social Democrats Cllr Peter Melrose motioned for KCC to engage with TFI Local Link in order to explore the feasibility of providing "a Kilcock-Maynooth shuttle service, running morning and evening on weekdays, so [that] commuters can access the Maynooth rail service".

Cllr Melrose's motion was seconded by his party colleague, Cllr Paula Mulroe.

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'THIS WOULD MAKE A DIFFERENCE'

Speaking further on his motion, Cllr Melrose remarked: "The might of KCC behind this would be appreciated; I think that this would make a difference if it is marketed correctly."

In response to the motion, KCC said via the report it presented at the meeting that it does not have a role in the scheduling of public transport services.

However, KCC also said that it can forward Cllr Melrose's suggestion to both the National Transport Authority (NTA) and the service provider for consideration.

KCC added: "Where a new route is deemed feasible by the NTA and the service provider, the council will work with all parties to provide the required stop approvals at existing bus stops or provide new bus stops / infrastructure where required."

Moreover, a KCC engineer who was present at the meeting, Donal Hodgins, told those in attendance that the members would have to write to the NTA about this matter if they want the organisation to consider Cllr Melrose's suggestion.

Following a brief vote, it was agreed that KCC would write to the NTA on behalf of Cllr Melrose.

Social Democrats Cllr Peter Melrose. Photograph credit: kildarecoco.ie

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Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.