The installation of a sheltered – hut/bench for Park Run organisers in Belleek Woods in Ballina, met with little enthusiasm from council management at the monthly meeting of Ballina Municipal District.

Independent councillor Mark Duffy had sought such a facility, at the request of the weekly 5k Park Run committee, but it was deemed as not necessary, in light of other sporting facilities in close proximity.

Councillor Duffy explained that in adverse weather conditions it would be reasonable to have a sheltered bench/hut at the start of the chipped 5km run each Saturday morning and he insisted that the delivery of such a basic facility should not be a big deal, considering that the organisers were not seeking funding for the development, that were only seeking permission to erect the sheltered area.

Eventually it was agreed that a council official will meet members of the committee to discuss the matter in more detail.

Speaking to Midwest News Editor Teresa O’Malley afterwards Cllr Duffy agreed that the initial response to his request was disappointing.