Mayo Independent Councillor provides update on 'perilous' north Mayo route
Mayo Independent Councillor Mark Duffy has shared an update on the long-awaited improvements to the vital road connecting Crossmolina to Lahardane.
A spokesperson for Mayo County Council confirmed to Duffy that plans to enhance road safety on this route are progressing, with the council having initiated a tender process to appoint consultants for the next phases of the project.
The process will see consultants take on Phase 3 (Design and Environmental Evaluation) and Phase 4 (Statutory Processes) of the scheme.
These phases are expected to take around 18 months to complete once the tender is awarded. Following that, the scheme will be submitted to An Bord Pleanála for approval.
Councillor Duffy welcomed the news but urged Mayo County Council to prioritise the development of this crucial route. "A large volume of traffic uses this road daily, whether it’s commuters from north Mayo heading to Castlebar for work or hospital appointments, or visitors travelling to popular tourism spots like Lahardane, Erris, and Ballycastle," Duffy said.
He also highlighted safety concerns about the R315, noting that while much of the road between Lahardane and Pontoon is in relatively good condition compared to the R312, the section near Castlehill remains hazardous. "Many people, especially from Belmullet, prefer to use the R315, but the area around Castlehill is dangerous for road users," Duffy explained.
"Numerous residents have raised concerns about this stretch, where stones regularly fall onto the road. High-speed traffic, combined with large vehicles, tractors, and machinery, particularly in the summer, creates a perilous situation. Now that schools are back in session, the risk is heightened with buses transporting children," he added.
While Duffy acknowledges that a full realignment of the road is needed, he is calling on the council to undertake immediate remedial work to prevent further incidents.
"I urge Mayo County Council to address the issue of falling stones before a serious accident occurs."