'Disappointment' at vandalism of bin on new-look Athlone street

A council official has expressed his disappointment at the vandalism of a litter bin which was set on fire on the newly pedestrianised section of Sean Costello Street in Athlone.

Fire damage can be seen on the exterior of the bin -- which has been out of use since last week -- and a black plastic bag has been placed over it.

Willie Ryan, manager of the Athlone Moate Municipal District, told the Westmeath Independent that the bin would now have to be removed and replaced.

"The disappointment for us is that somebody went and did this," he said of the fire damage.

He explained that there was still an external contract in place for certain works on the pedestrianised street, such as landscaping, but removing and replacing the bin would be the responsibility of the council.

"We will have to source a replacement bin, which meets the same specifications, and that could take a bit of time," said Mr Ryan.

"We expect to have this bin removed shortly. If it's not removed, the only reason for that would be if taking it out would create a trip hazard on the street."

The multi-million euro streetscape enhancement at Sean Costello Street, Pump Lane and Mardyke Street was officially opened in early November.

The works were carried out by John Cradock Ltd, which was awarded a contract for the project at the beginning of 2023.