Calls for rural safety scheme
Increased traffic volumes have necessitated the compilation of a comprehensive safety scheme for rural roads in east Cavan, members of the Ballyjamesduff Municipal District heard at a recent meeting of the authority.
Cllr Shane P O’Reilly (Ind) raised a number of issues regarding road safety in the Mullagh and Virginia area. He asked engineers to review safety considerations at Knocktemple National School on the L3022.
“The problem is that there are not enough road signs,” Cllr O’Reilly told the Celt.
“I am looking for an upgrade of the signage and road markings at the school. When the nine eyed bridge was closed, and other work on the N3, cars are redirected on that road. A lot of people who were unaware of the alternative link road became used to using it. This has resulted in an increase in the volume of traffic. The road is now used as a rat run for people at time when traffic is heavy on the N3. This has resulted in increased safety problems and issues at the national school. This problem could be addressed with increased signage,” he said.
Cllr O’Reilly also sought a reduction of the speed limit at Ryefield Cross, which is on the same road: “The area needs a comprehensive safety scheme to address the issues. There has been fantastic work done by the Munterconnaught Heritage Society on the cross roads. They have done great work in beautifying that area. Following the concerns and representations made to me regarding Wood Cross Road junction and the need for a reduced speed limit, new signage and repeater signs with the new lowered limit, works are expected to be completed by September.”
The Mullagh man said that work of volunteers needs to be augmented: “That whole cross looks impeccable. There was a lot of support for that from Cavan County Council. They are a community that has had a massive growth in population in recent years. That is really good for the school, but that also bring added pressure in terms of traffic. It is just something that needs to be looked at.”
Responding, Cavan County Council engineer, John McGahern, committed to look into the matter urgently.
Acknowledged an observation by Mr McGahern that “responsibility has to be taken by motorists”, Cllr O’Reilly added: “We as a local authority must do everything in our power to assist those that are most in danger. That is why I asked for these measures. It is not the first time I have asked, but I am optimistic that they will bear fruit.”