Calls for measures to slow traffic on Ballina's streets

Councillors in the Ballina Municipal District have called for more raised pedestrian crossings in the town, saying they are one of the most effective ways of slowing traffic and improving safety.

The issue was discussed in relation to a report on pedestrian crossings in the Ballina Municipal District, requested by Cllr Michael Loftus.

The report showed that of the area's 25 pedestrian crossings, 15 are at road level and 10 are raised.

“We’ve always had an issue with pedestrian crossing. I feel the ones that aren't raised need to be. It’s a great way of slowing traffic down,” Cllr Loftus said and called for a plan of action to be put in place.

He said there needs to be a “full council approach” to pedestrian crossings, adding that there are far more raised crossings in Castlebar than in Ballina.

Cllr John O'Hara supported the call, telling the meeting he had been in Dublin on Saturday, and he drove across around 20 raised crossings on a single road.

“They slow down the traffic, and they are needed in any heavily populated area,” he said.

Cllr Jarlath Munnelly said he had raised concerns two years ago about a pedestrian crossing in Ballycastle that he believed was in a dangerous location, but no action had been taken.

“I also put down a motion previously [listing] areas that need pedestrian crossings, and it hasn't gone anywhere,” he added.

“If we’re going to try and make the place safer for people of all abilities, elderly people, children, people with disabilities, pedestrian crossings are essential.” Cllr Annie May Reape also called for more raised crossings and specifically requested one in Ardnaree near a shop where large numbers of children cross the road.

“It's a dangerous spot. Cars keep driving, they don’t stop for a flat crossing,” she said.

In response, Senior Engineer Orla Bourke said pedestrian crossings are installed in line with national guidelines, but acknowledged that raised crossings are becoming more common.

“Raised crossings aren’t favoured by emergency services, which is the reason why they weren’t put in for years. The landscape has changed now, it's more active travel and people first and slowing down traffic,” she explained.

She added that the Director of Roads is preparing a report outlining a county-wide approach to pedestrian crossings.

Funding for new raised crossings would have to be applied for through the Low Cost Safety Scheme or Local Transport Plans.

• Published as part of the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.