Mayo to get 15 new bus shelters
A programme of works designed to make public transport in Mayo accessible to all has been unveiled by the local authority.
Mayo Co Council's Director of Services Tom Gilligan told last week's meeting of the council's strategic policy committee (SPC) for roads that the programme is focused on sustainable transport networks, climate action, accessibility, and ensuring works are community-led and have adequate funding.
“Under the plan, it is envisaged we will deliver walking and cycling programmes in conjunction with safe access to schools and new lighting. More importantly, we will roll out the whole idea of modern bus stops and weather-protected bus shelters, as there is a significant lack of these in Mayo and if we are going to encourage more people to use public transport, we must put in the infrastructure to make it accessible for all.”
Mr Gilligan said the plan contained a commitment to installing 15 new bus shelters shelters and 20 electric vehicle charging points in the next two years. Road schemes in general also needed to be looked at in relation to adaption measures such as flood defences, surface water and drainage infrastructure.
“We will also look at at safety and sustainability, adding more pedestrian crossings and safety design in hand with the Safer Schools Programme.”
Mr Gilligan said it was important “to maximise our funding to make sure we are not left behind".
"This means securing any climate fund allocations and also creating a five-year pipeline, to ensure we get our fair share of national funding because the reality is in Mayo there is a road network of over 6,000km and over 5,000km of this is local roads.
He advised members: “As a policy committee we must ensure the policies are in place for the funding to happen and thus our programme of goals here is all linked back into our corporate policy plan and if members are happy we will work on that basis.”
