COUNCILLORS have given the seal of approval for a much-needed footpath to be constructed from beside the Mulroy Woods Hotel to Lidl in Milford.

The 600 metres stretch is used frequently by pedestrians along what is a very busy road, and concern has been expressed about the dangers associated with the current situation where no footpath exists.

The issue really came to light over with an influx of refugees who have been accommodated in the Milford Woods Hotel. Many of them walked on a daily basis to the Lidl shop and adjacent units in the retail park, prompting fears about safety.

Construction is expected to take four months, but more funding is still required.

Supporting the passing of a Part 8 request (effectively giving the Council the go ahead for its own proposals following a public consultation) Cllr. Declan Meehan said that this was a “big issue” in the area. He pointed out that €120,000 in funding has already been secured under the community recognition fund and the hope is that additional funding can be sourced.

“This is a good day, we are progressing in the right direction,” he said.

Cllr. Pauric McGarvey, who has also been vocal on the subject, welcomed the move at Monday’s plenary meeting of Donegal County Council.