Frustrations grow over traffic issues in Mayo town

A Castlebar councillor has said motorists are growing increasingly frustrated by traffic issues in the town.

Problems persist at the busy Gallows Hill junction as traffic backs up each morning from the direction of Rathbawn and the Pontoon Road.

Cllr Harry Barrett told a meeting of Castlebar Municipal District that on his walk to work he encounters exasperated motorists who are anxious to see the traffic problems resolved.

Cllr Barrett called for an update on the proposed Rathbawn Road traffic survey. He said councillors are facing the ire of frustrated motorists who want to see actin taken.

“People are asking me what the hell is going on?” said the Independent councillor.

Cllr Barrett also requested that a safety review be carried out following the completion of contentious works at Balloor junction.

Mayo County Council was previously criticised over a lack of communication with residents over works at the ‘lethal’ section of road.

The junction at the Breaffy end of Balloor is to be narrowed as part of the Breaffy Active Travel Scheme.

Councillors continue to call for a bus depot for the county town with the current situation at Stephen Garvey Way deemed chaotic and dangerous. A number of near-misses have been reported at the location. 

Concerns have also been raised about its suitability for disabled passengers and a lack of adequate cover from the elements.

“It’s an accident waiting to happen,” stated Cllr Barrett.

Council officials informed local councillors that they are seeking a further tranche of funding for car park works at the Lough Lannagh leisure centre.

There has been parking issues at the facility for some time. 

Senior engineer Pat McHale said the local authority is anxious to progress with the project but is hoping to secure additional funding in order to carry out the full scope of works the council feel is required.