2020

Merry Christmas

Anticipation of Santa's arrival is causing excitement.

Merry Christmas Everyone.

Christmas CleanUp

This full bag of litter was collected from Bothar Sion by Johnstown Tidy Towns on Christmas Eve.

If they didn't pick up the litter it would easily have found its way into the River Boyne.

Don't Drop Litter

Local Businesses Donate

€300 SuperValu Vouchers from staff at SportsDirect.com Navan.

This will help support those living rough on the streets and families living in food poverty.

Local Farm Digs Deep to Donate

A very large consignment of Potatoes from Higgins Potatoes will support food hampers to families living in food poverty.

New Navan Town Bus

From Sunday Dec 20th five busses will operate two new routes running every 30mins from early morning to 11:30PM, 7 days a week, incl Public Holidays.

• Route N1 will operate between Commons Rd and Johnstown via the Town Centre. (N1 Timetable Link)

• Route N2 will operate between Commons Rd and Blackcastle via the Town Centre. (N2 Timetable Link)

This service replaces the 110A, B & C.

Navan Cycling Initiative point out that we're missing an opportunity to include cycle holders.

SantaBox Donation

Niall Guinan, Local Resident and Secretary of Bohermeen Celtic Football Club, presented Johnstown Tidy Towns with gifts for the #SantaBoxAppeal collected during their youth team awards day.

These donations will help families in less fortunate circumstances to enjoy the special Christmas we'd like them to have.

SantaBox Appeal

The annual appeal to provide presents to families in difficult circumstances has been hit badly by Covid restrictions and people are limiting their shopping visits.

Children in less fortunate circumstances look forward to Christmas and we ask you to help them to have presents to open. ICHH appeal now has an online gift donation page to ensure they have these gifts and that it is a safe way for you to shop.

Donate via their page www.ichhsantabox.online

You can also donate your own gifts in person through Navan's Santa Box Appeal before Dec 9th via these Local Drop Offs:

👉 Farrellys Centra, 8 Abbey Crescent, Abbeyland, Navan, Co. Meath

👉15 Boyneview, Johnstown, Navan, Co.Meath

👉NUYU Hair & Beauty, Medges Lane, Navan

Air Quality

Navan Cycling Initiative provide a review of the air quality as published by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Unfortunately for us the nearest sensor is at the Navan Fire Station and idling cars is one of the worst offenders.

We wonder how Johnstown would score during rush hour?

Read the Review

Where Can Johnstown Sparkle?

The Late Late Toy Show signaled to many families that it's time to put up their Christmas Decorations. Navan has their Christmas Tree and street lights, Old Johnstown Village has a tree too but what could we have in Johnstown?

Where could we add a sparkle during these dark evenings?

Helping Hands

Many hands make light work but often neighbouring groups need to support each other. Johnstown Tidy Towns helped The Orchard's Plan Bee to clear away overgrowth and enhance the space for wildlife within the entry of the Orchard Estate.

Pre Loved Clothes

Please don't throw old clothing into the waste bin when it can be recycled:

• Walterstown GFC are currently collecting clothing to raise funds.

• Cllr Alan Lawes, Boyne View, is collecting for the homeless and families in need.

• A resident in Athlumney Abbey is collecting clothing for young children & infants to redistribute to local families.

• There are several Navan charity shops who will be accepting clothing donations again soon.

• Navan Recycling Centre has a collection point.

As a final, and very last resort, locate a clothing bin BUT please do not give to rouge traders calling door2door. Check the register and we've yet to find a flyer that's correctly listed with the National Waste Collection Permit Office.

Estate Support Groups

Do you know about and your neighbourhood residents group ?

Not only do they support estate maintenance but some also provide Neighbourhood Watch & Text Alert, Community Support and are a great source of local knowledge too.

See our Navan Guide and connect with your estate group.

Send us a message if you can help identify an online presence for the +60 other groups.

Thank You for Volunteering

Together with over 800 people nominated across Ireland I'm delighted to have been nominated in this year's Volunteer Ireland Awards for contributions to Community Support here with the magazine, with Johnstown Tidy Towns & Community Support Service, local Sports and fundraising for local charities.

We say a big 'Thank You' to all the Volunteers for doing a great job giving up their time to help others.

Raise Community Spirit

You might be waiting for the Late Late Toy Show on Nov 27th before putting up the Christmas tree but it'll lift Community Spirit during Level 5 on these darker evenings if we started to put up some external house lights.

Monthly Clothing Appeal

These ongoing donations to Inner City Helping Homeless make a significant difference to homeless and families in need during the cold wet months.

You can continue to donate by messaging Johnstown Tidy Towns to coordinate donation drop offs during Covid restrictions.

Autumn Spiral

What else could you do with leaves? Temptation got the better of us and perhaps the leaf spiral will bring an unexpected smile to other walkers in the Limekiln Estate.

If you have Autumn Images send them to us: Email Instagram Facebook Messenger

Santa Box Appeal 2020

Inner City Helping Homeless not only help provide food to the Johnstown Tidy Towns Community Support Service in Co Meath but they also host an annual appeal for Christmas gift boxes. These support people who are living on the streets, in emergency accommodation and in direct provision.

These gifts and Christmas cards offer people who are struggling during the toughest time of year with a real boost.

• Take a box and mark it man, woman, boy or girl (include age bracket for a young person).

• Fill it with essential supplies: socks, underwear, hats, scarfs, gloves, toiletries, or gift vouchers, sweets and small toys / gifts.

• If possible include a Christmas Card with a positive message.

• Wrap the lid and box separately.

Contact Alan Lawes to donate your Santa Box 085 175 7216 or by dropping off at 15 Boyne View Johnstown Navan County Meath.

More drop off's posted on the Facebook Group Santa Box Appeal

Last Few

Despite the Covid restrictions preventing group sessions the Johnstown Tidy Towns volunteers have continued individually to plant 1500 spring bulbs. Today should see the last planting for Johnstown to bloom with colour in Spring.

Read the Project Plan

Autumn Colours

The Ramparts is in full Autumn display but the weekends are proving a demand on the popular car park. Take the opportunity to cycle there and enjoy the path on 2 wheels.

Cycle Routes

Park & Ride gains improvement suggestions

Navan Cycling Initiative have submitted observations to Meath County Council Planning Department regarding the provision for cyclists at the proposed N51 Park and Ride facility at Moatlands, Navan.

View the NCI submission

Closing date for observations is Dec 1st.

View the Full Planning Proposal

Still Going Strong

Only 2 sunflowers remain on the grassy bank outside Athlumney Hall on Metges Rd weeks after the others ended.

Later this month we'll get to see how many seeds Johnstown Tidy Towns generated for next years Sunflower Trail.

Signs of Life

Wildflower seeds take quite a while to show signs of growth and those recently sown at the Bailis Downs fence line are starting to appear. It's hard to distinguish between grass, weeds and the intended flowers but only time will tell.

Johnstown Tidy Towns will carry out a further seed sowing in early Spring.

Rough Sleepers Gain Support

Johnstown Tidy Towns Community Support Service have obtained the provisional support of Meath County Council and intend opening a food voucher account with Smith's SuperValu to support those sleeping rough on the streets of County Meath.

Food Donations

Meath Families are sometimes struggling to put food on their tables.

ALL the local collection and distribution groups are asking for your support to supply essential basics to local families and YOU could help.

Please locate your nearest drop off point and donate non perishable foods on a regular basis.

Food Aid Groups

Generosity

It's impressive to see how much the Community can offer support to families in Meath who need help to put meals on their tables.

If you can help donate food please contact Johnstown Tidy Towns Community Support Group.

Smooth Road

The potholes have gone from the Johnstown Shopping Centre and you no longer require any climbing equipment or a 4 wheel drive.

Feature Tree Removed

The photo shows the tree at the Johnstown Roundabout in July which we reported as looking bare at a time when it should have been covered in leaves.

Today the dead tree was removed by the Council's Parks division.

Will it be replaced?

Cycle Locally

Navan Cycling Initiative and Wild About Navan have created a map of cycle routes to promote the natural beauty and areas of biodiverse interest in Navan.

See their Map

Local Clean Ups

We're all going to be seeing a lot of our local streets over the next few weeks so spend a bit of time looking after them.

Johnstown Tidy Towns appeal for families and individuals to take on some responsibility to keep Johnstown Litter Free during Level 5.

Residents can contact them for equipment and to drop off litter bags.

Support our Local Shops

Long term living with Covid will likely mean Government imposed restriction Levels opening & closing shops for month's to come.

If we don't buy locally then the shops will go out of business.

See our Very Local Shops and see if you can buy online.

Members of County Meath Chamber feature in their Local Navan Directory

Things to do within 5km

Recent travel restrictions mean that you need to know your 5km boundary and we highlight a dozen things to see and do within 5km of Johnstown.

Read More

Spring Colour.

Johnstown Tidy Towns are planting bulbs every Sunday until December to make Johnstown Bloom in Spring.

They invite any Family (household unit) or individuals who would like to participate to message them.

Find Out More

Pedestrian Lights ON

The pedestrian crossing lights on Metges Road opposite the Cois Glaisin Estate have finally been activated.

You will still need to drive very slowly over the crossing for fear of losing your exhaust or breaking the car's suspension.

Update: They appear to be testing them and the covers have gone back on.

Clothing Appeal

Update 25/10 - please hold on to your clothes until Level 5 is over.

As the winter weather approaches we're appealing for you to donate clothing to support the homeless.

Old clothes, blankets & sleeping bags, in any state, are wanted together with NEW 'Socks and Jocks' too!

If you want to know what happens with your donations we tagged along last year to see for ourselves. Read More

Donations can be made to Alan Lawes 0851757216 or drop off at 15 Boyne View, Johnstown.

Community Space Public Meeting

Opportunity for any clubs from Johnstown to talk about a place for everyone to use as a community space.

• 👫 October 20th

• 12pm

• Meeting OUTSIDE Johnstown Boxing Club at the Athlumney Centre, Metges Rd.

Looking Trim

Now that the hedge cutting season is underway Athlumney Wood got a much needed trim.

Back on the Path

Since their creation in the 90's it's a surprise that all the main greens never had paths installed from the outset.

The Chestnut and Elm section of Johnstown Woods Estate follows Maple and Bailis Downs with a new footpath linking residents to Metges Road.

What to Do with Leaves?

They've been falling for a few days but soon the ground will be covered in golden brown and red leaves.

The leaves will eventually break down but there's more chance they'll turn into a soggy slippery mess and find their way to block up the street rainwater gullies?

Why not arrange with your neighbours now to help collect them in the coming weeks for the organic bins.

If you have space they're great to add to your compost bin provided you've got a supply of green waste to add too.

Time to Collect the Seeds.

If you grew sunflowers and have let them develop it's now time to collect the seeds and dry them.

You can toast and eat them, crush them up for the bird feeders or save the seeds to plant more next year.

Johnstown Tidy Towns are keen to see how many seeds they can save for another Sunflower Wall and hopefully produce a sunflower trail through Johnstown.

Congestion Returns

The first heavy rain, since schools fully reopened, briefly drenched Johnstown this morning. As expected very few students walked or cycled to the Johnstown School Campus resulting in major car traffic.

The tailback stretched down Bothar Sion, over St Martha's Bridge and onto the Dublin Road shortly before 9am. This 2km tailback sets a new record for local school congestion.

Metges Road appeared bumper to bumper up to the Kentstown Road Junction and passing the Priory Estate Entrance from the South.

Perhaps it's time to invest in umbrellas since leaving home earlier by car to allow more time doesn't appear to be a viable solution.

Bike Week 2020 Begins

Meath Local Sports Partnership in association with the Department of Transport is supporting a number of cycling activities September 19th-27th

More Information

Camping on the Council's Doorstep.

Cllr Alan Lawes is furious that Council Support Services have left 2 homeless men on the streets of Navan, without emergency accommodation, for 5 days since his Friday phone call seeking help.

At the time of meeting them there had been no development but we're guessing the Council will notice them now, and hopefully find them shelter.

Friday Traffic

The week started off with the Kentstown Road Works being largely the source of congestion, Wednesday's down pour still didn't make much impact but by Friday Johnstown's Traffic was back to the familiar grid lock.

Cycle Map

We're delighted to see that Navan Cycling Initiative have produced a Cycle Route Guide to encourage Students returning to School to ditch the car.

Most local residents live within a 15 minute, or less, cycle of Navan's Market Square which means you'll likely beat the peak time traffic congestion. By using the routes the car can't take you can save even more time.

We've included the map in our Cycle Lanes & Routes Guide

Scorched Earth

Only a week after the Council Sprayed weed killer throughout Johnstown and the unpleasant signs of chemical warfare are starting to appear.

There must be a better way to do this since the bare earth will simply encourage weeds to return in place of grass.

Why exactly do fences, lamp posts and street signs need such severe support?

Athlumney Hall Verge

At the request of local Cllr Alan Lawes the Council are transforming the dirt verge along Metges Road. It's hoped that they will replicate the wildflower planting stretches which appeared in Navan this year.

Flowering

Johnstown Tidy Towns's Sunflower feature along the wall of Athlumney Hall on Metges Road are starting to bloom. They planted 2 varieties so we'll have to wait a little longer to see if we can spot the differences.

Get to School on your own Fuel

For the next few weeks in the lead up to schools reopening Navan Cycling Initiative is encouraging you to help your child discover bicycle routes to school.

Facebook Event Link

July 29th

Is Tree Surgery legal at this time of year?

In response to a query relating to trees being trimmed / felled locally the following 3 points may offer some clarity:

1. The Wildlife Acts 1976-2018 states that the cutting or felling of trees is prohibited during the period 1st April to 31st August every year with limited exceptions.

2. You cannot enter on to the land of the tree owner without permission.

3. It is the responsibility of the land owner or the person felling the tree to ensure that they are acting within the law.

To discover what is legal depends on your circumstances but we advise you to review the following:

• www.treecouncil.ie which provides a simplified overview of the Laws.

• www.agriculture.gov.ie which provides detailed explanations, FAQs and how to apply for a Felling Licence which is FREE.

If you want to help protect what we have read our recent article about Mapping Our Trees

July 26th

Trees Still There

This time last year the Community took a stance and protested against the over development of Johnstown.

Despite later gaining permission for apartments to be built and the removal of the wooded area on Metges Road the planning conditions imposed has provided a delay.

Read Nov 2019 Article

July 26th

Paint Pot Clear Out

Navan Recycling Centre will be accepting household paint pots from August 4th, €2 entry fee plus €1 per pot, maximum 10 pots per visit.

July 25th

'Solo for Siun'

The Walterstown GFC fundraiser came through Johnstown earlier than anticipated on Saturday morning. They've exceeded their goal by more than €10,000 for CMRF Crumlin and Temple Street Foundation.

More pictures from the event on their facebook page Walterstown GFC

Stop the Broken Glass

Before anyone else gets hurt from irresponsible littering Johnstown Tidy Towns have made a public appeal for ideas to find a solution to the constant littering, and anti social behaviour, at the steps area between Spire View and Chestnut Court.

This week a lady cut her foot on broken glass requiring a tetanus shot and reports that a dog required the vets attention from a similar accident.

Send them your suggestion:

Facebook Messenger Email

Potholes to Go

If you've driven into the Johnstown Shopping Centre in the past few months you'll be delighted to hear that the potholes greeting you are finally set to be filled in later this month.

Hedge Gone

News that more trees and hedge line was removed for development concerned us. When the rain eventually cleared we took a look for ourselves at the Dunville Estate development where it meets Kentstown Road. We discover that the hedge was removed in accordance with planning permission, albeit during bird nesting season, but we were relieved to see that the plan suggests over 20 trees will be planted together with what looks like a boundary wall. It should enhance the route but since we can't publish the plans you can view them here .

Thirsty Plants

The Johnstown Tidy Towns portable rainwater buggy gets its first outing of the year to feed and water the Sunflower Planting outside Athlumney Hall.

Remember there's still a hosepipe ban in effect until July 21st. Between members of the JTT they have capacity for 1000 litres in rainwater butts. During the wet spell it's worth getting one for your home.

Vandalism

'Navan Gardaí are investigating an incident which occurred at Páirc Tailteann yesterday evening between 5pm and 8pm. A number of youths broke into a shed on the grounds of Páirc Tailteann and stole a ride on lawn mower, which they proceeded to drive around the car park and the pitch, causing damage.

Gardaí are appealing for any witnesses to this incident to contact Navan Garda Station on 046-9036100.'

Hot Pets

We're enjoying the sunny spell but your pets need to keep cool.

• Walk when it's cooler, early morning or evening.

• Touch tarmac with your hand and if it's too hot for your hand after several seconds it's too hot for you pet's feet.

• Keep your pet hydrated with plenty of water and even add ice cubes to keep it cold.

• Beds need to be in shade preferably with a cooling draught.

• Dogs enjoy the fun & cool water so if it's suitable use a paddle pool.

• Never leave a pet alone in a car, even overcast days can make them ovens.

Bee Time

By now your garden flowers should be attracting the local Bees with climbing roses, sage and wildflowers in bloom.

Did you know that some local trees are pollinator friendly too? Down at the Athlumney Riverside see if you can spot Willow, Hawthorn and Horse Chestnut.

Our Wild Side

Bee Helpful

Cutting it Fine

Most, if not all, of the Estate Lawns are being mowed after a break of several weeks. The question now is how long are you willing to let it grow between cuts to promote wildlife?

Car Crime

We don't have Spiderman or any other superhero so it's up to all of us to be the eye's and ears on the street. If you see something suspicious report it to the Garda, then inform your neighbourhood watch or Estate Group who can alert the entire neighbourhood quickly.

Thieves have no concern for Social Distancing or Property.

Be Alert.

Garden Time

With the fine weather and Garden Centres reopen it's time to enjoy your garden.

This new booklet is extremely good with practical step by step actions to create something healthy, helpful and beautiful.

Download Booklet

It's Very Dry

We've not seen much rain lately and some Estate Lawns and verges are starting to turn brown, the River Boyne is noticeably low too.

Find out more about conserving water Here

Garden Supplies

Many of the Garden Centres have reopened with new shopping experiences.

Local Suppliers Guide

Support

Families are struggling to put food on their plates. You can help by donating to one of the Food Banks providing support to local people. The Johnstown Tidy Towns Covid19 Support Group make deliveries every Saturday to over 20 homes across Navan and those supplies come from YOUR donations.

See Donation Details Here

Take a Walk

Who would have thought Metges Road could host some colour.

All these flowers are between Bailis Downs and the Kentstown Road on a very long stretch of verge that had previously been decimated with weedkiller. The plants are certainly few and far between at the moment but there's hope we'll have more when lockdown restrictions eventually allow Johnstown Tidy Towns to continue their plans.

Read why we're interested.

Pleasant Surprise

In a few days time there will be a swathe of 'daisy' type flowers on the verge in Spire View. An unexpected and welcome change in amongst the otherwise bland grass.

Update 14th May; Unfortunately the verges were mowed to reveal just more monotonous grass.

Read why we're interested.

The Long and Short of it

Delighted to see someone decide to manicure just a small section of the field opposite Kilcarn Bridge whilst leaving the vast majority of it to grow long.

Read why we're interested.

Not Impressed

The area around the steps between Spire View and Johnstown Village have again accumulated more litter with beer bottles, cans and wrappers.

During the health emergency this litter is now a biological hazard and Johnstown Tidy Towns are not able to assist since they are not an essential service.

Trees Down

Update 13th May: It would appear that a cluster of trees were felled on the old Johnstown Road opposite the Cois Glaisin Estate for reasons of safety or to make a new entrance.

Little Things Matter

It's nice to be surprised especially when they bring a smile to young faces as they discover them. We spotted this recycled bird / squirrel feeder on the Athlumney Riverside Trail.

Perhaps next time we'll find wind chimes or fairy house doors.

5km

Are you going to remain as you are even though from today:

• People can now travel up to 5 kilometres from their home to exercise.

• Those who are cocooning can leave their homes for exercise so long as they avoid all contact with other people.

Leave Only Footprints

As a regular walker along the Athlumney Riverside Path it fills me with despair to see glass bottles abandoned alongside the river, stray sweet wrappers & crisp packets amongst the trees.

A full bag was removed today but PLEASE take your litter home with you.

"For a few weeks now I have heard people saying “ I just can’t wait for things to be back to normal.” I may have said that a few times myself. 😊

But as I’ve thought about our current situation I have realised how much I don’t want things to go back to exactly the way they were. 🤔

Here are a few of my reasons...

❤️ I hope that the next time a friend grabs me and pulls me in for a hug, I actually take the time to appreciate the gift of their presence and embrace.

🧡 I hope that when school resumes and you are dropping your kids off, you take the time to thank the staff for the amazing gift that they give to your family.

💛 I hope that the next time I’m sitting in a crowded restaurant I take the time to look around at the smiling faces, loud voices and be more appreciative of the gift of community.

💚 I hope that when I am at the supermarket that I take a moment to acknowledge the necessities of life and the amazing people who work so hard to keep us supplied.

💙 I hope that I never again take for granted the ability to hop in the car and visit a friend, go to the beach, a restaurant or a movie, etc.

So, truth is, I don’t want things to return to the way they once were. 💜 I hope and pray that we take the lessons and challenges of the past few weeks and create a new normal.

My goal is to appreciate more, love harder, and truly appreciate the daily abundance of blessings that were so easily overlooked just a few weeks ago. If someone tells you they love you, take it to heart! "

Urban Nature

We've all rediscovered our local walks around the estates, through the IDA or down to the Kilcarn Bridge.

We're delighted to discover Wild About Navan - a new Urban Nature Conservation Project which we ask readers to take a look at in the hope that we can all help look after our environment.

Take part in their online survey bit.ly/2VNjE6F and follow them on Social Media.

Facebook Instagram Email

Regular Deliveries

The lockdown and lost income through job losses has increased the need for families to ask for food hampers.

Fortunately volunteers like the Johnstown Tidy Towns Covid19 Support Service are available to help deliver these and food donations are always welcome.

Volunteer to help one of several local groups supporting the wider community during the Covid 19 emergency.

Don't Spoil It

The Athlumney Riverside Trail and Old Kilcarn Bridge have both gained popularity whilst the sun was shining.

Shame that a few don't just leave only footprints.

Community Support

It was announced this week that the formal Tidy Towns Competition 2020 has been cancelled which has allowed the groups countrywide to participate in providing Covid-19 Community Support.

More local groups are listed as part of the Community Effort under Meath PPN.

Covid19 Volunteer Groups

Mind Your Step

The boardwalk at the back of the Meath County Council's HQ looks more like it belongs in a horror film. Be warned it's not safe to walk on if you're following the Athlumney Riverside Trail.

Here's where we left off with Johnstown Tidy Towns and ideas for the path development however all plans are now on hold until the current crisis is over : Riverside Status

Good Deeds

Another sunny Saturday and another great response by Johnstown Tidy Towns Volunteers to distribute supplies from Athboy's People Who Share Care Group to Navan families.

The trailer donated last year by Malones Navan has certainly been put to good use.

World Earth Day

To mark the occasion we took a break from the internet for the day and made the most of the fine weather.

'The waiving of fees for residual waste at Navan Trim and Kells Recycling Centres has resulted in very high visitor numbers. The high level of activity presented difficulties in terms of traffic and essential travel restrictions. Regretfully this high level of activity cannot be sustained in the current era of Covid 19 restrictions.

The fees for residual waste (€5 for a black sack) will be reinstated from 8.30am on Wednesday, April 22nd.

This will reduce visitor numbers to a manageable level in terms of Covid 19 Restrictions, in order to ensure the Recycling Centres can remain open during this period.

The gate fee of €2 continues to be waived.'

Source: Meath County Council

Residents of Bailis Downs took out their lawn mowers to cut the main green themselves using 5 mowers over 2 days to trim the large green before the height of the grass became unmanageable.

Safe Social Distancing was simple to achieve given the size of the lawn.

Let it Grow

Those dandelions in the grass verges are providing a food bounty to the bees so please leave them alone.

Good News

Not only was today wonderfully sunny & warm but it was made even more beautiful by seeing the large number of volunteers respond to make local deliveries. ICHH donated 300 Easter Eggs which were divided between the people in Athboy, the travelling community, and Navan families in need.

All the toiletries were donated by local businesses and people via Amanda and Graham Gerathy working the Athboy People Who Care and Share for ICHH. They also donated all the food for 20 hampers.

The Easter Bunny is also very grateful to the Volunteers for their quick deliveries.

Johnstown Tidy Towns

From Meath County Council:

We have established a new community support line to assist older or vulnerable people who are recommended to cocoon and remain in their homes during this current period of the emergency.

If you are one of these people, or if you know of someone who needs assistance with practical matters such as:

➡️ collecting medical and food supplies,

➡️ transport to attend a medical appointment

➡️ or another need,

please contact our free-phone number:

1800 808 809

between 9am-5pm. The line is a seven day service and is operational from Monday, March 30th.

This service is being provided at county level in cooperation with a number of public agencies, NGOs, local groups, sports clubs and others.

For the duration of the Coronavirus Pandemic Johnstown Tidy Towns is offering a collection and doorstep delivery service within the Johnstown area.

We offer to bring essential supplies to the elderly, those with medical issues & disabilities, and any household self isolating due to Coronavirus infection.

The areas we cover are Athlumney Abbey, Athlumney Wood, Bailis Downs, Athlumney Hall, Kentstown Apartments, Johnstown Wood, Dunville, Bailis Village, The Priory, Millbrook, Boyne View, Spire View, Cois Glaisin, Carne Wood, Carne Hill, Johnstown Village, Cill Foireann.

HELPLINE 085 175 7216 8am to 8pm and registered with Meath Public Participation Network and Navan Garda.

To Volunteer send your Name, Mobile and Estate to one of these:

• johnstowntidytowns@gmail.com

• Private Message our Facebook Page.

• Text Helpline Number 085 175 7216

Please inform your neighbours and let's help each other during these unusual times.

Stay Safe, Stay Home and if you venture out ensure you maintain social distancing.

Source: Johnstown Tidy Towns

For the duration of the Coronavirus Pandemic we are seeking volunteers to support the people of Johnstown.

This may involve collecting and delivering food, prescriptions or supplies to the vulnerable, elderly or those in self isolation.

Once we have established a safe system to minimise the risks we will advertise a mobile contact number for the service.

Please spread the word and we are contacting Meath PPN and all Johnstown Residents Associations to ensure every household within the area is able to receive help.

If you would like to support this initiative and offer your assistance please send a private message with your name, mobile number and the name of your Estate.

Contact Johnstown Tidy Towns

Facebook

Messenger

Email

A family in Johnstown Wood took the initiative to remove the grass verge in front of their home and sow wildflower seeds around grassess and shrubs.

Now is the time if you want to sow wildflower seeds but you'll need to be quick if visiting the garden centre.

Why not phone the garden centre, ask them to prepare an order, pay over the phone and then just make a collection and perhaps you can even avoid entering the shop?

Shop responsibly, maintain Social Distancing.

Garden Supplies

One thousand crocus bulbs were planted in the Estate's grass bank near the entrance. Small delicate white, yellow and violet flowers are slowly appearing to provide vital food for the emerging Bees and it creates a welcome feature for residents.

Bee Article

The Orchard's Plan Bee

Lights Damaged

An early Sunday morning collision severely damaged the St Martha's Bridge traffic lights.

Let it Grow

Between March 1st and August 31st the Wildlife Act 1976 protects hedgerows, gorse and general vegetation. Don't cut, burn or destroy it during this time without special permission.

Riverside Trail

It shouldn't come as a surprise to see the lower trail at the Athlumney Riverside Path under a few inches of water. It is a floodplain after all.

The erosion on the higher path is exposing more of the buried fence wire so watch your step.

Clean Up

The derelict house opposite Kilcarn Bridge is being cleared of debris and a steel fence is to be installed. Plans to build apartments were shelved during the recession and we don't expect any new works to take place.

Trees Gone

Who would have thought that half a dozen trees would be taken down to facilitate a simple road crossing on Metges Road?

Will more come down if there's another installed?

Craters

Deep and getting wider potholes are causing issues at the Johnstown Shopping Centre.

Money raised this weekend goes towards environment projects involving Colaiste Na Mi secondary school, St Stephen's primary school and St Mary's Special School.

Instagram Page

Facebook Page

Cllr Alan Lawes has formally written to Meach County Council regarding the public's concern for pedestrian safety on Metges Road.

"To whom it may concern,

As you know parents in Johnstown have been demanding a pedestrian crossing for a very long time now. While there is one being constructed near the Cos Glaisin estate and that is welcome, the real danger to children is further up the road close to the Bus stops and the park. Parents are very fearful that a child will be seriously injured or killed in that area. I know Councillors were told at a Navan Municipal meeting recently that sourcing an electrical connection was the problem.

The road gets busier by the week now. With ever increasing traffic particularly heavy traffic, with lots of articulated trucks and construction traffic adding to a road that is already congested to the maximum with commuters. Numerous parents have complained to me and many others have commented negatively about the Council online. There is a level of frustration building up in Johnstown that I haven't witnessed before. Its a lot to do with the over development of the area without the infrastructure and the facilities to go with it.

The pedestrian crossing is just another example. Hundreds of houses and now apartments are given planning permission in super fast time and yet it takes years to get a simple pedestrian crossing to keep our local children safe.

Whatever the hold up, can we get a move on and "URGENTLY" construct the second pedestrian crossing along Metges Road and prevent the accident that's waiting to happen.

Kind Regards,

Cllr Alan Lawes"

Source: Alan Lawes for Meath County Council

Luckily it's currently the Mid Term school break when traffic is at reasonably low levels. At present there is no information on the duration of this stage but we will endeavour to seek further information.

The spray markings on the floor suggest that works are concentrating on the reconfiguration of services such as Gas, Water, Telecom and Electrics.

JTT Clean Up

Storm Dennis deterred all but a few Johnstown Tidy Towns volunteers but they still managed to clear 4 bags of litter from Metges Road and the Bailis Downs Estate.

See more pictures