Deep road concerns by Mayo residents on council agenda

TRAFFIC concerns on the Balloor road in Castlebar have again been aired at a municipal district meeting this week.

Some short-term and immediate measures were proposed by local councillors: ban heavy goods vehicles (Michael Kilcoyne), hedge cutting (Ger Deere) and improved junction road markings on Belcarra side (Al McDonnell, who made his comments following a recent accident).

There is increasing traffic on the route, which is most unsuitable for heavy traffic, said Councillor McDonnell, with many using it as a shortcut.

Municipal head David Mellett agreed the road was never designed for the volume of traffic now using it.

Local residents have written to councillors about their concerns, with high speed vehicles and a lack of courtest posing safety risks to drivers, pedestrians and cyclists.

The opening of the N5 dual carriageway appears to have significantly compounded matters, with more traffic using the link between the Belcarra road and Breaffy road.

Residents believe a reduced speed limit and enforcement would enhance safety, along with hedge and verge cutting.

A dangerous bend on a hill at an estate entrance and also the blind junction at the Balloor/Milebush exit also require attention.