Rural Footpaths

Delighted that both my motions passed yesterday our last Meath County Council full meeting of this current council.

“I propose that Meath County Council Transportation Section develops a comprehensive assessment framework to gauge the social impact of new infrastructure in rural communities, taking into account factors such as enhanced community interaction, road

safety, accessibility to essential services, and the promotion of local identity and belonging"

This has long been a guiding principle for me over the ;ast ten years. Ensuring that all Housing estates are linked by a safe path This motion will strengthen our ability to deliver safe footpaths in our more rural areas, right across the county. Thankyou to my fellow Cllrs for their support.

The reason I think footpaths are important:

In rural communities, footpaths serve as vital connectors, not just physically linking spaces but fostering social cohesion and community interaction. In these close-knit environments, footpaths facilitate face-to-face encounters, promoting neighbourly interactions and shared experiences. They become the arteries of local life, enabling residents to safely access essential services, engage in spontaneous conversations, and participate in communal activities. Unlike in larger urban communities where alternative modes of transportation and social spaces are more abundant, footpaths in rural areas often represent the primary means of connection. Therefore, their social impact transcends mere convenience, profoundly influencing the fabric of community identity and belonging.