Submissions invited on speed limit for section of new road in west Mayo

THE speed limit on the northern relief road around Westport is being reduced to 80kph, with a section at the Attireesh roundabout dropping to 60kph.

A reduction is also proposed on the N59 Newport Road, with an 80kph limit from the roundabout above to the industrial park - a 60 limit to the industrial estate was sought but rejected by TII.

Proposed amendments to bye-laws to implement the changes are now on public display until June 5 and the public and interested parties are invited to make submissions.

The changes are part of the new N5 development.

Councillor Peter Flynn welcomed the reductions, particularly at Attireesh, saying it was a dangerous location with a 100kph limit.

There were requests also to include Slaugher junction in the reduced speed area.

A debate at a municipal district meeting brought into focus speed limit concerns at other areas, particularly in relation to Glenhest school.

A county review was paused due to legislation going through the Dáil to reduce limits nationally, but Councillor Brendan Mulroy wants to see the case for Glenhest put back on the table.

It wasn't fair, he said, that they would have to continue waiting and he asked that it be sent out for public consultation.

Councillor Johnny O'Malley supported him, saying traffic flies through Glenhest.

If a child get hit, it will be done, he commented. The time to do it is before anything happens.

Members were told to have something for their next meeting would require drawings and bye-laws, but a request will be sent to the Roads Design Office to see if something can be done for this one-off spot.