WAW 'Gallows' signs raise hackles
Metal signs erected by Failte Ireland at Wild Atlantic Way 'Discovery Points' have met with a mixed reaction with some critics comparing them to 'gallows'.
A county councillor is now seeking clarification on whether the signs required planning permission before they were erected.
Fianna Fáil’s Michael O’Shea told the 'Irish Examiner' that he had received a number of complaints from residents in west Kerry complaining about what they see as “eyesores” that obscure their view of the Blasket Islands.
He is raising the issue at a meeting of the South and West Kerry Municipal District.
There has also been criticism of the structures in other parts of the country reported in local papers and in negative commentary on social media.
Fáilte Ireland has spent more than €400,000 on the steel structures that have been erected at 134 of the 188 ‘discovery points’ identified along the route for which interpretation panels and photo points have also been developed.
It says the photo panels were developed as “bespoke artistic installations in line with international best practice” and were being installed at locations that captured the dramatic view.
Fáilte Ireland said the locations for each of the discovery points were chosen with due consideration to all environmental factors and the materials were chosen after a detailed process to ensure durability and resilience.
This workshop takes place as Waterford County Council prepares to officially open the 48km Waterford Greenway in early autumn.
The popular air display in Co Wicklow is due to take place on July 23rd and 24th, with the Red Arrows performing on the second day. Other acts have yet to be announced by organisers.
