Path would cause 'major negative' effect at busy Portlaoise junction claims council Reporter: '); '); The provision of a footpath at the junction of the Green Mill Lane and the Ridge Road would require the purchase of land, Cllr Willie Aird was told at the Portlaoise Municipal District meeting. Cllr Aird's motion called on Laois County Council to look at the junction at Green Mill Lane and the Ridge Road with a view to making it safe for pedestrians. In reply the Council noted that the narrow road widths and alignment of Greenmill Lane, combined with the presence of private residences bounding the public road created significant challenges to the provision of footpaths.