Longford councillor in ‘Master plan’ calls to address The Mall concerns

Local politicians are expected to hear of the increased need for investment within the grounds of Longford's Mall Complex at a meeting of Longford Municipal District today (Wednesday).

The call is being made by Independent Cllr Gerry Warnock on foot of the facility's ever growing popularity.

"Over the last number of years, The Mall has seen a significant increase in footfall in no small part due to the success of the Leisure Centre, the upgrading of the walking trail, Longford Park Run and other running groups, as well as the continued use of the Astro Turf Pitches," he said.

"This is all hugely welcome, but we need to ensure that our infrastructure is in line with thisincreased usage as well as being mindful of public safety."

Cllr Warnock said there was an onus on the council to try and exhaust every possibility in meeting the demands of the wider public.

"It is hugely positive that the place is used, but we have to have a product that is fit for purpose," he said.

It's also anticipated the meeting will hear of questions about the possible extension of changing facilities witha view to replacing incumbent communal dressing rooms with separate men's and women's facilities.

The long-serving local politician said while his overtures concerning CCTV were not motivated by the alleged recent assault of a woman in The Mall almost two months ago, it underlined the broader importance of CCTV.

"It is an example of why CCTV can be so helpful in instances like that even though it was a very isolated incident," he said.

"The Mall is heavily utilised but it is my belief the infrastructure has fallen behind."