Safety concerns on a busy Clare road sees calls for action 'now'

TRAFFIC calming measures between two Clare locations have been proposed, as there is said to be a 'need' for safety measures 'now', with the safety of pedestrians and motorists questioned. 

At the latest Killaloe Municipal District (MD) meeting, one local councillor said that there is an 'urgency' for more safety concerns to be introduced for road users between Scariff  and Tuamgraney at the junction leading to the town of Scariff.

Saying that the "absence of a pedestrian crossing and the need for traffic calming measures pose significant risks to both pedestrians and motorists" in the area, the "quick implementation" of these measures is "crucial to mitigate potential risks and accidents", according to the elected member. 

With the recent closure of Gala in the area, it has been reported that extra school children and pedestrians are walking from Tuamgraney to Scariff.

Declan Flanagan, senior executive engineer, replied to this concern, saying: "Killaloe MD has recently carried out speed surveys on approach roads to Scarriff and aware of speeding violations taking place.

"There is merit in the addition of a pedestrian crossing and control measures at the junction leading to Scarriff. There are some limitations on design, as sightlines are hindered at Scarriff Bridge and road width may possibly be an issue on the Mountshannon side of the junction."

Mr Flanagan continued by saying that despite this, Killaloe MD will be putting this potential scheme to the road design team and will consider enhancing the visual appearance of the junction.

In 2019, as part of the Scarriff Town & Village renewal, a large raised table was installed at the Forge. This has reportedly proved to slow down traffic at  this particular location adjacent to Riverview estate and The Scarriff Health Care centre.