Concern over lack of action after fallen trees block a busy Mayo stretch of road 

Concerns have been expressed that overhanging trees are causing major issues on a busy Mayo road, writes Keith Bourke. 

Fine Gael councillor Gerry Coyle highlighted the issue at the annual budget meeting of Mayo County Council.

He told councillors of the difficulties caused during the recent cold snap when large falls of snow caused trees to fall and block the main R312 road connecting Castlebar and Bellacorick.

Cllr Coyle said the overhanging trees on the route have been a constant source of problems for motorists. He said he cannot understand how the issue has not been dealt with by now.

“Surely we can find a few bob to cut those trees back from the road,” said Cllr Coyle. “This is 2024,” he added.

The Erris councillor said he recently met with a concerned constituent who had feared not being able to bring his pregnant wife to Mayo University Hospital in Castlebar due to fallen trees on the road.

The council's chief executive Kevin Kelly said he is aware of the issue and appreciates Cllr Coyle’s concerns. However, he stated that the project is one that should be part of a national initiative and so far the council’s pleas for action have fallen on deaf ears.

“To my mind, it’s a national programme that is required to deal with these overhanging trees, the ash die-back, and those related issues. Those issues have been raised previously with TII (Transport Infrastructure Ireland) without success and I think collectively we need to ensure that we get a country-wide programme of work to address that issue because it’s costly and very, very extensive.”