Dundalk has improved on its ranking of last year, and will be cleaner than the European norm if progress continues. A couple of the top ranking sites in Dundalk were not just clear of litter but very well presented and maintained e.g. Dundalk Institute of Technology, Dundalk Grammar School and the Recycle Facility on Newry Road. All three approach roads were also top ranking. The remainder of the sites were moderately littered.
Approach from Dublin: Grade A. A well kept approach road creating a positive first impression of the town – this high standard was maintained for many of the remaining sites in Dundalk.
Approach to the North: Grade A. (not the motorway) The road surface / signage / markings were in good condition and the grass had been neatly cut. Overall, this was a very fresh and well maintained route.
Dundalk Institute of Technology: Grade A. A superb site. Not only was the campus clear of litter but the impression was of a very clean environment. This has recently been recognised in the awarding of the Green Flag – well done to all concerned.
Dundalk Grammar School: Grade A. This was an excellent site – not only was there a complete absence of litter it was also very fresh ain appearance. Signage, litter bins, railings etc. were in very good order.
Dundalk Railway Station: Grade B. There was a small litter presence in the car park of the train station – the rest of the station was much cleaner.
Clanbrassil Street: Grade B. The presentation of this main shopping street was mixed – some aspects were nicely paved and laid out. Other parts had poor footpath and seats at the northern end were not in great shape. Cigarettes and chewing gum were prevalent with lower levels of fast-food wrappers and sweet papers.
Recycle Facility: Grade A. (Newry Road) A drive-in facility – all aspects of the area surveyed were in very good order.
Dunnes Stores: Grade B. There was a wide variety of litter at this site, much of it was food related. Chewing gum levels were high and there were also some cigarette packs.
Oriel Park: Grade B. The litter in the car park took away from an otherwise good site. Bus parking area had good surface / markings and signage.
Drogheda – Dundalk Road (N132 – M1 – N52): Grade A. This was a clean and well maintained route.