Improving Accessibility in Wicklow: New Bye-Law Will Tackle Footpath Obstructions

Together with my Social Democrats colleague, Cllr Danny Alvey, we brought forward this motion to address a persistent issue raised by constituents and community advocates: waste bins being left scattered across pavements, creating serious hazards for pedestrians, particularly those with disabilities.

A Practical Step for Inclusion

Under the new bye-law, waste collection companies operating in Wicklow will be required to:

• Place bins by a boundary, such as a wall or property line, rather than leaving them in the middle of pavements

• Ensure bins are removed from public footpaths by an agreed time after collection

This may seem like a small change, but its impact will be significant. For many people, especially those with visual impairments, mobility challenges, or who use assistive devices—an obstacle as simple as a misplaced bin can completely block access or cause injury.

This issue has been repeatedly raised by members of the Bray Disability Network and the Wicklow Visually Impaired Group, who’ve consistently highlighted the dangers posed by cluttered and obstructed footpaths. Their advocacy has been instrumental in bringing this issue forward.

Listening to the Community

As I said during the Council discussion:

“This motion is the result of listening to people in our community, especially those who experience the built environment differently. Everyone deserves safe and unobstructed access to public space. This is a practical step toward a more inclusive, accessible Wicklow.”

Cllr Danny Alvey added:

“I want to acknowledge members of the Wicklow Visually Impaired Group who have been actively campaigning for this and attended a recent Municipal District meeting. This is about public safety, basic respect, and shared responsibility.”

We both believe this change is not only sensible but long overdue. Footpaths should be safe for all, and this motion puts the responsibility where it belongs: on the companies profiting from the use of our public infrastructure.

What Happens Next?

The Council’s Environment Department has confirmed it will begin the process of updating the relevant bye-laws in Quarter 3 of 2025. The draft proposals will be reviewed by the Climate Action, Biodiversity and Environment Special Policy Committee before being brought to the full Council for approval.

This is a win for accessibility, for public safety, and for community-led change.

We’re deeply grateful to the disability advocates and residents who raised this issue, and we remain committed to working alongside you to build a Wicklow that works for everyone.