Two large trees at pedestrian crossing present danger

A TYMON resident has claimed that a pedestrian crossing on Castletymon Road could lead to someone “being killed or knocked down” due to road users’ vision being obscured by two trees.

John Dale, who lives in the area, said the issue became apparent to him ten weeks ago, after South Dublin County Council carried out works including dishing the curb on the road.

However, there are two large trees at the crossing, which Mr Dale claimed present a danger for both pedestrians and motorists.

“It’s between eight and ten weeks that this has been going on,” he told The Echo.

“They put down a crossing, but there are two big trees, and you can’t see the traffic.”

John’s view of traffic is obscured

Mr Dale said he had repeatedly raised the issue with South Dublin County Council, who informed him that there were plans to trim the trees.

“They don’t need to be trimmed, they need to be removed,” he said.

“You literally can’t see the traffic coming down the road. “I’m using a walker, and I put the walker out in front of me so drivers can see me.

“Someone’s going to be killed or knocked down, and then they’ll say, ‘We’ll remove those trees’.

“I want the trees to be removed so you can see the traffic.”

On-coming traffic cannot see pedestrian at the crossing

Mr Dale added that, while he generally doesn’t like the idea of trees being cut down, it’s his view that in this instance a “safety first” approach should be taken, and the trees should be removed.

The Echo contacted South Dublin County Council for comment, and a spokesperson confirmed that a tree at the crossing is now scheduled for removal.

“The works currently being carried out in the vicinity of 21/22 Castletymon Road are related to the Castletymon District Centre Enhancement project,” they stated.

“As part of the works a dished crossing was provided across Tymon North Gardens to assist mobility impaired users.

“The crossing was located on the desire line, so it provides the best service for members of the public.

“In the coming weeks our public realm team will be removing a tree located to the southwest of the crossing to improve sightlines at the new crossing point.”