The very positive steps that are being taken in Navan as part of the town’s 2030 project are being let down by the ongoing serious neglect of a laneway right in the heart of the town.
Aontú Cllr Emer Tóibín says
“Because of all the really good work that is being done around Navan , a spotlight is being thrown on Metges Lane for all the wrong reasons.
Other parts of Navan are really taking shape and being well spruced up but this laneway, which is used by hundreds of people each day is still a desperate eyesore .
It had become something of a no-go area in recent years due to persistent anti-social behaviour. Thankfully, much work has been done to reduce that. However, the lane now looks really badly neglected, with overgrown weeds, illegal dumping and unsightly hoarding making it an eyesore.
Some local businesses have done great work keeping their immediate areas clean, but they can’t be expected to manage what’s opposite them, and unfortunately, this impacts trade.
Understandably, people are less likely to stop for a coffee when they’re looking out at mess and overgrowth.
I have been contacted by several worried local business owners who are genuinely concerned that trade is being impacted. These businesses pay rates, and they deserve to see the tangible benefits of that.
In an increasingly challenging economy, they should not have to be concerned about the impact of a neglected laneway on their business.
I’ve asked the Council to contact the landowners responsible for the small parcel of land alongside the lane and to request that it be tidied up, at least in the short term, while longer-term development decisions are being made.
Lanes like Metges Lane can be a real asset to towns, improving walkability, supporting local business and adding to the town’s character. A little care and attention could go a long way here in making Metges Lane a more welcoming and attractive space for everyone.
