Calls to address 'very poor condition' of footpaths at Clare lake popular with bathers

A motion has been submitted to Clare County Council asking that measures be taken to address the "very poor conditions" of parts of the footpaths at Ballyallia Lake.

In a written response to the motion from Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy, Senior Executive Engineer Paddy Tiernan confirmed that staff attached to the Ennis Municipal District will carry out an assessment of all footpaths in the Ballyallia Lake area within the coming weeks.

Ballyalla Lake, also known as Ballyallia Lough, is a small lake on the River Fergus, just north of Ennis town.

It is a Special Area of Conservation as well as a Special Protection Area for birds and wildlife sanctuary. 

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In his response, which was circulated at the monthly meeting of the Ennis Municipal District, Mr Tiernan explained that once areas in need of repair are identified, works will be carried out by local authority crews.

However, he warned that should significant areas of footpath be in need of replacement a further funding source will need to be identified.

The bathing area at Ballyallia Lake is based around a small slipway, consists of small stones and extends around 70metres along the shoreline.