€150,000 Investment Secured for Newcastle Village Footpath Improvement

Councillors Lourda Scott (Cathaoirleach), Mark Barry (Leas-Cathaoirleach), Louise Fenelon-Gaskin, and Stephen Stokes have welcomed the allocation of €150,000 from the Councillors Discretionary Fund to deliver long-awaited footpath improvements in Newcastle Village.

Cllr Lourda Scott stated: “This is a very welcome and necessary investment for Newcastle Village. Residents have been raising concerns about this stretch of footpath for a long time, and it’s important that we respond with meaningful action. I’m pleased to support this funding, which will make the area safer and more accessible for everyone.”

The funding, approved at the April 2026 meeting of the Greystones Municipal District, will support the development of a new and improved footpath along a key stretch of road from the Castle Inn to the L5050 junction. The investment is sourced from the Councillors Discretionary Fund, which is funded through the Local Property Tax.

Cllr Mark Barry added: “This funding represents a practical use of Local Property Tax to directly benefit the community. The need for improvements along this route has been clear for years, and I’m glad to see progress being made. Credit is due to the residents who have kept this issue on the agenda.”

The proposal was formally put forward by Councillors Louise Fenelon-Gaskin and Stephen Stokes and received strong backing from Councillors Lourda Scott and Mark Barry. The project aims to significantly enhance pedestrian safety and accessibility in the area.

Cllr Louise Fenelon-Gaskin remarked: “I’m very pleased to have proposed this investment alongside Cllr Stokes, Cllr Scott & CJoint press release from Cllr Lourda Scott, Cllr Louise Fenelon-Gaskin, Cllr Mark Barry & Cllr Stephen Stokes. This is vital for Newcastle village.

Photo attached. Left to right: Cllr Stephen Stokes, Cllr Louise Fenelon-Gaskin, Cllr Lourda Scott, Cllr Mark Barry.

Many thanks,llr Barry. This stretch of footpath is well-used but has needed improvement for far too long. This funding is a significant step toward addressing that and improving safety for all who live in and visit Newcastle.”

All of the councillors agreed that Newcastle is a wonderful community and that the funding is well deserved. The councillors also paid tribute to local residents who have consistently advocated for these improvements over many years.

Cllr Stephen Stokes concluded: “This is a strong example of what can be achieved when councillors work together in response to community need. Residents have shown great persistence in calling for these works, and it’s right that we take decisive action. I look forward to seeing the project delivered.”