Road markings to be repainted at 'problematic' pedestrian crossing in Limerick town
Councillors say while the crossing in Newcastle West is an asset to the town, it's location has raised safety concerns
CONCERNS have been raised about a “problematic” pedestrian crossing in a busy Limerick town, prompting calls for the council to repaint road markings that have faded.
At the March meeting of the Newcastle West Municipal District, Fine Gael councillor Tom Ruddle tabled a motion calling on the local authority to repaint pedestrian crossings that require attention, "in particular the crossing from Modini shoe shop to Fitzgerald’s Corner".
Cllr Ruddle said that while the crossing is important for pedestrians in Newcastle West, it can also pose safety issues for drivers if it is not clearly visible.
“It is great to have a crossing, but at times it can be unsafe because we have all driven there and the next thing there is someone on it,” he said.
He asked that the crossing be made more visible to motorists, adding that it “definitely needs to be painted anyway for a start”.
Cathaoirleach for the district, Cllr Michael Collins seconded the motion, noting that the location had been carefully considered when the crossing was first installed around a decade ago.
“At the time when we requested it to be put in there was a big discussion about where to locate it and that was a big challenge,” he said.
“So that location is problematic where it is, but where would you put it if you were to move it?”
In response, Senior Executive Engineer Ben Noonan said significant consideration would have gone into choosing the crossing’s location.
“A big thing in terms [of the crossing] is desire lines (unofficial paths used by pedestrians), they would be the biggest challenge if you were to move it,” he said.
“The last thing you want to do is move it somewhere where people won’t utilise it.”
Independent councillor Jerome Scanlan said that after “careful consideration” at the time, it was decided that “the only place it could have gone is where it is.”
He added that “you can change it [the location] in the morning and you still have the risk of someone getting knocked down.”
Leas-Chathaoirleach for the district, Cllr Francis Foley, agreed, saying they “need to make people more aware of the road markings.”
In a written reply, Mr Noonan confirmed the road markings will be upgraded. "This crossing will be repainted when the road lining contractor is in the district for works.”