Safety scheme needed for dangerous junction in Mayo town

Calls have been made for the funding of a low-cost safety scheme at a dangerous junction in Claremorris.

Independent Cllr Richard Finn raised the issue at last week's meeting of Claremorris-Swinford Municipal District, warning that the work needs to be done before "local residents experience the trauma" of witnessing a serious accident.

Cllr Finn submitted a notice of motion regarding the junction known as 'The High Crossroads' on the Ballinrobe Road leaving Claremorris.

“Local people are worried and don’t need the trauma of seeing an accident at this point,” he said. “A low-cost safety scheme is required here and we would ask it to be put as a high priority.” 

Independent Cllr Patsy O’Brien seconded the proposal.

“Since the SatNav came in, a lot of roads don’t show crossroads in certain places. The signage is poor on both sides and needs to be upgraded and this would really help. It is very important that something is done.” 

Cllr Damien Ryan said fixing one side of the junction would be complex but the other side would be easier to make adjustments to.

“The ability is there to do something, it is wide enough to look at a scheme with lining and signage.” 

Mayo County Council's senior engineer John O’Malley told the meeting that he has contacted the council's Roads Office in relation to the matter and the “wheels are in motion” for a safety audit to be carried out, which may lead to a low-cost safety scheme.

• Published as part of the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.