Residents unhappy with aspects of Mayo project

Councillors have expressed their anger over aspects of a €4.5m Active Travel Scheme.

Cllr Michael Kilcoyne told a meeting of Castlebar Municipal District that residents are unhappy with elements of the Castlebar to Breaffy project.

The 4.2km cycle way and path runs along the N60 and links Breaffy and Castlebar. The project aimed to provide segregated footpaths, cycle lanes, pedestrian crossings and upgraded junctions along one of the busiest routes in the county.

Cllr Kilcoyne said an area close to the Cedars and Ashwood housing estate in Castlebar were left dismayed after paving was destroyed by grease and tyre marks.

“I have never seen anything like it,” added Cllr Blackie Gavin.

“That’s not good enough. The contractors have a responsibility. If they are not able to keep the site clean or are messing up on stuff then the cost should be deducted from them,” said Cllr Kilcoyne.

He also highlighted a Breaffy householder who has flooding fears with 10 pipes coming out of the road and into a drain which is blocked with vegetation.

The homeowner told Cllr Kilcoyne that when he went to Mayo County Council with his concerns he was told that had called a day too late to have the problem fixed.

“I want a site meeting arranged out there,” said Cllr Kilcoyne.

Cllr Cyril Burke said the Active Travel project allows for bus stops in Breaffy but no bus shelters.

Director of Services, David Mellett said he notes the issues raised in relation to the Active Travel Scheme but commented that it remains a live construction project.

He said some of the issues highlighted would be picked up during the snagging process.

Mr Mellett said the current scheme did not allow for a bus shelter but that can be looked at again once the project is completed.