Bike pumps with repair kits to be installed along Old Rail greenway

Cyclists on the greenway network across Westmeath can look forward to a range of new measures, including permanent bike pumps, bike stands and repair kits, as a result of a Green Party councillor's motion at the May meeting of Athlone Moate Municipal District.

Acting chair of the district and deputy mayor, Cllr Aengus O’Rourke, described as “a great motion” the call by Cllr Louise Heavin to install permanent bike pumps “at accessible locations” along the greenway network through Athlone, Moate and Kilbeggan.

“I have been contacted by a number of people about this issue,” said Cllr Heavin, “and anyone who has found themselves stuck out in one of the more remote locations on the greenway with a flat tyre will know the importance of having access to a bike pump.”

The Green Party Cllr said the greenway network is “widely used by individuals and families” and she added that it was “very important” that the necessary infrastructure be put in place to encourage more people to use such a great facility.

Cllr Johnnie Penrose requested that permanent bike pumps be installed at Castletown also, and director of services, Barry Kehoe, said it was the intention of the council to install bike pumps along the route of the greenway.

He added that the permanent bike pumps will also include “a stand and various tools” to allow cyclists to carry out minor repairs along their cycle route.

Speaking to the Westmeath Independent this week, Cllr Heavin said it will be “wonderful” to see facilities put in place along the greenway, and she expressed the hope that the necessary works to put the infrastructure in place can be carried out “without delay.”

No timeline or costings for the installation of the bike pumps were outlined to the May meeting by the executive.