Calls to replace ‘pedestrian’ signs at county bounds

A KERRY County Councillor has called for the rich culture and heritage of the county to be acknowledged through the erection of “distinct and unique” welcome signs at entry points into the county produced in conjunction with local artists.

Cllr Norma Foley, speaking at the January meeting of Kerry County Council, said the current signs in use were “pedestrian”.

“The current signs are very standardised. They are the same as other counties. I would go so far as to say they are very pedestrian when there is so much more to us in this county,” Cllr Foley remarked.

“We have painters, poets, singers and dancers. We have the home of the National Folk Theatre of Ireland. We are the premier county for culture tourism and we need different signage that marks us out. They need to be visual, and done by local artists to proclaim Co Kerry as a place of culture and art,” the county councillor added.

“I know money is tight, but perhaps some of the money used for tourism promotion could be used,” Cllr Foley suggested.

In response, Ger O’brien, Head of Corporate Affairs, Kerry County Council, said the Local Authority had already erected welcome signs at access points into the county and that care needed to be taken not to favour one activity over the many attractions Co Kerry has to offer.

“As members are aware, Kerry County Council has erected gateway signage at the access points into our county on the N22 at the county bounds and on the N21 near Abbeyfeale. This signage welcomes visitors to our beautiful county. We have also erected signage at the entry points to our unique Gaeltacht areas to welcome visitors and recognise that they are entering a special and unique area. It may not be appropriate to select one building or activity for special mention over all attractions in this county,” Mr O’brien said.

Ger O’brien suggested that the matter be referred to the county council’s Community, Cultural and Tourism Strategic Policy Committee.