The erection by North Tipperary County Council of a road safety barrier at a major tourist attraction on the shores of Lough Derg in Co Tipperary has caused anger among the local community.
The construction of a road safety barrier positioned at the scenic lookout, which offers panoramic views of Lough Derg between the villages of Portroe and Ballina, has led to a number of calls for the barrier to be taken down.
Local Labour councillor, Seán Creamer had repeatedly called over the past year for a safety barrier to be erected to replace the wire mesh that was previously in place.
"The old wire mesh wasn't up to scratch with the present safety standards," he said. "There would have been severe difficulties if an accident were to happen. There are safety specifications for speed barriers from a health and safety point of view and the structure in place is designed to do that job." The council took action and erected a barrier similar to ones used on dual carriageways throughout the country.
However, Cllr Creamer pointed out that not enough thought went into the choice of barrier and has had complaints from angry residents of nearby Portroe village. He spoke to the area engineer regarding the design of the barrier and asked him to reconsider the design.
Area engineer Michael Woulfe said the council will not be taking down the barrier and the reason for its erection was for road safety purposes.
Residents are angry as they feel the structure is a major eyesore at one of the most popular tourist attractions in north Tipperary.
One local resident claimed the structure was similar to a barrier that would be seen in Belfast.
"It is like something you would see on the Falls Road. It is an ugly looking structure and they have ruined one of the most scenic places in north Tipperary. I doubt you would see something like this on the Ring of Kerry."