As rural landmarks go, the ‘Farmyard Cross’ at Belgrove near Ballybrittas is a noteworthy one.
But the priority at the junction has been an issue of concern for local residents for the past number of years and a petition recently got over 140 signatures seeking a change.
It was the subject of two motions at this week’s Graiguecullen-Portarlington Municipal District in Laois County Council.
Both Cllr Vivienne Phelan and Cllr Aidan Mullins had it listed but with their motions essentially being identical, they were heard jointly.
“It’s a junction that definitely needs to be looked at,” said Cllr Mullins.
“When you’re coming from Ballybrittas, it’s a straight road but you swing left (off it). The problem is when you’re coming from the other side (from Belgrove), you cannot see the traffic from the left.
“The original priority a number of years ago was that road coming from Ballybrittas continued (and you indicated to the right to go down the Bog Road).
“It’s my interpretation that it should go back to that. 140 residents have signed a petition. These are 140 locals who travel this road every day and their judgement on the issue should be considered.”
Cllr Vivienne Phelan added: “I totally agree. It’s completely blind to the left. The residents in that area are absolutely adamant. It’s something that needs to be looked at urgently.
“There are signatures from people on all stretches of that road. It needs to be looked at. Road safety always has to be a priority.”
“I know the road well,” added Cllr Paschal McEvoy. “And if 140 people in a small area like that are behind it, it is a serious, genuine, issue.”
The official response from Tom Drennan, the senior executive engineer for the Graiguecullen-Portarlington Municipal District, said their roads office will collaborate with the Roads Design Section in Laois County Council.
“If any proposed changes to junction are deemed warranted, a Road Safety Impact Assessment would be required and would be subject to available resources depending on extent of any proposed amendments.”
Separately he added that council will “assess all options” once they see what comes from the assessment.
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