Locals are ‘shook and rattled' after driving on main road in Mayo

Proposed works on the R335, the main road from Westport to Louisburgh, need to commence right away, according to local councillor Chris Maxwell.

Speaking at the October monthly meeting of the Westport-Belmullet Municipal District, Cllr Maxwell said the state of the road is the single biggest issue he receives representations about.

“People going in and out that road are shook and rattled to bits after using it. It is an absolute disgrace at this stage and back in Louisburgh, the people seem to be forgotten about. It is the only subject that comes up on a daily basis.

“There are a couple of kilometres and I want an answer as to when that will happen and what is the plan for all of the road from Belclare (outside Westport) to Louisburgh?” 

Area engineer Martin O’Grady said the 2km stretch close to Louisburgh is due to commence in early November while other works will have to be discussed as part of future road programmes.

Not for the first time, Cllr Gerry Coyle expressed concerns over the R312, the main road from Erris to Castlebar.

“It’s not a road you’d want to be on if you were inclined to get seasick. It is mostly in two other municipal districts but I’d like to see more progress on it,” he said.

• Published as part of the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.