Limerick's Georgian Quarter not a ‘driving school track’ for HGVs
CONCERNS have been aired over the use of Limerick’s Georgian Quarter as a “driving school track” for heavy goods vehicles (HGVs), trucks and buses.
The matter was raised at a meeting of the Metropolitan District of Limerick by Councillor Elisa O’Donovan.
She moved that the Council write to Bus Eireann and driving schools that operate buses, articulated trucks and HGV driving lessons in the city, that they do not operate or drive through roads that have weight restrictions, and use main roads and bus corridors.
“It is a very common sight to see truck-driving schools driving down very narrow roads with weight restrictions,” Cllr O’Donovan said.
“I appreciate they do have to learn how to drive and to get around tight corners, but our Georgian Quarter is not an appropriate training track for these HGVs,” she added.
She said that any of these roads are highly residential and have lots of foot traffic and that vehicles such as HGVs and buses have “no business” going down these roads.
Councillor Sharon Benson seconded the motion calling it “common sense,” while Councillor Daniel Butler also backed the motion, highlighting the issue of buses on Lord Edward Street.
Cllr O’Donavan questioned whether the Georgian Quarter was the only place where these learner drivers could learn.