Seven junction closures on N17 in Mayo approved

Seven junctions on the N17 between Knock and Claremorris are set to be closed in a bid to address safety on the route.

A list of eight junctions for extinguishment of rights of way came before local councillors, with all but one approved.

What is known locally in Claremorris as the Bog Road (L55512) was removed from the list.

The latest accident last weekend on the N17 was the 100th accident to occur on this stretch since 2019, senior engineer Conrad Harley told councillors at their monthly municipal district meeting.

Since the speed camera came into operation on the N17, it's recorded an average of 32 offences each day.

He outlined the various proposed closures and upgrades that went out for public consultation, saying just over 200 submissions were received from members of the public.

The main objections related to the Bog Road, with concern about the impact on traffic in Claremorris town.

He had the support of Councillor Richard Finn on all but the Bog Road junction, for many reasons, including traffic impact on the town, and he said he would go with the majority of the people who elected him.

Junctions weren't responsible for all accidents and Councillor Finn highlighted human error and issues such as phone use. And he also highlighted the number of speed detections since the camera was installed on the road in recent months.

Councillor Finn also hit out at having been 'threatened' that morning in relation to the Bog Road, saying this would not affect him as he was 'too long around for threats'.

He has worked for 34 years as a councillor for the progress of Claremorris town and he didn't think he had done anything negative to take from that.

There comes a day when you have to take a stand and he wasn't going to give in to threats or innuendo about how it would affect one's chance of re-election.

Cathaoirleach Councillor Damian Ryan said there was no place in this country for threats and he would have no tolerance for that. They would make decisions in the best interest of the people they serve.

Councillor Patsy O'Brien supported his Claremorris colleague but asked that in changing the junction at Garryduff, the old Ballindine Road should be upgraded as it's not fit for purpose, and that was included in the resolution.

That a councillor is threatened in any way showed the significance and emotions around this matter, said Councillor Alma Gallagher.

However, the danger attached to the N17 can't be underestimated. They had to show leadership and sometimes they have to make unpopular decisions, which cause inconvenience, noting how she had concerns about the Bog Road proposal.

The impact of that junction closure on the town also concerned Councillor Deirdre Lawless, sending out a message that they weren't willing to grow the town, she said.

A feasibility study regarding an N60 bypass was needed before they considered closing the Bog Road, Councillor Lawless suggested.

The closures - minus the Bog Road junction - were adopted unanimously, with Councillor Gerry Murray again impressing the need for a motorway to be put back on the national agenda.

There has to be forward planning to ensure infrastructure is up to standard, he said.