More concern in same Kerry estate over unsafe boundary walls

Gareth McNicholas is the second resident in the last month to highlight the issue of poorly constructed walls in the area that he feels pose a threat to public safety.

Mr McNicholas believes the wall in question is at the point of collapsing and he is asking Kerry County Council (KCC) to intervene before there is a serious accident.

The council has since responded to representation made on Mr McNicholas’ behalf that suggests it is not responsible for the wall, which was built in the mid-2000s when the housing estate was finalised.

But as the wall divides a boundary with a public area, residents say the council should intervene to alleviate health and safety concerns as children constantly play ball against the wall.

“I’ve had the walls looked at independently by a builder and he said the wall is not safe. He said with kids kicking ball against it, it is enough to weaken the wall even more. He told me it is not safe,” said McNicholas.

He explained that when he places his hand against it, the wall rocks back and forth such is its unstable condition.

“The point I’m making to the council is that one side is in a public area. It’s not just my wall, all the walls in the area are in poor shape. All the capping has fallen off. If you push the wall with the flat of your hand it moves. The kids play near this wall. The last thing I want is for some kid to get injured,” he said.