Several Laois County Councillors have called for traffic calming measures to be introduced in Mountmellick, on a stretch of road repeatedly described as “very dangerous.”
Cllr Paddy Bracken called on Laois County Council to carry out measures on the road from Derrycloney Bridge to Cloonagh.
“This road has effectively become a bypass of Mountmellick, coming from Tullamore across to Portlaoise” Cllr Bracken said.
“It is getting busier and busier – people are avoiding the town – and the residents living in that area are afraid to even go in or out of their own entrances.”
In response, Mr Paul McLoughlin, Senior Engineer at the Road Design office said: “The Road Design Section will undertake a speed survey along the stretch of road identified.
“Following analysis of the information gathered, consideration of the as required will be given to potential measures.”
Cllr Bracken said “I appreciate the response, but I would appreciate action as well.”
The issue was raised at the Borris-in-Ossory-Mountmellick Municipal District meeting this week, with three other Cllrs lending their support to the cause.
Cllr Seamus McDonald said he travels on that road every every day and fully supports the need for calming measures with speeding being a extremely serious issue.
Cllr James Kelly also supported the measures, insisting motorists are racing through that road and continuing with high speeds into the town.
Cllr Ollie Clooney backed the motion, saying everyone in Mountmellick would benefit from such measures on the “very dangerous stretch of road.”
The meeting also saw Cllr Bracken call on Laois County Council to begin the process of taking in charge of Chapel Lane off Chapel Street, Mountmellick.
The Fianna Fáil Cllr said the road has been neglected for years and is in an awful state.
Mr McLoughlin said the Council “will assist the local residents in commencing the application for the Statutory taking in charge process.”
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