Councillors want more restrictions on heavy goods vehicles in Thurles

Councillors in the Thurles-Templemore Municipal District want more restrictions on HGVs in and outside the towns. 

The issue was first raised at this week’s meeting by Cllr Jim Ryan, who asked the District Engineer why signs on Butler Avenue, Iona Avenue, Davis Road prohibiting HGV traffic had been removed. 

He said residents are concerned about the danger heavy goods vehicles pose in residential areas. 

District Engineer Thomas Duffy said he did not know the answer but would investigate.  He said it possibly could have been a guideline issue but would return to the councillor with an answer. 

Cuchulainn Road

Cllr Kay Cahill Skehan raised the issue of HGVs on the Cuchulainn Road.

She said that although there is a sign prohibiting trucks from turning onto the road, they continue to do so. 

Cllr Cahill also pointed out that the sign is currently covered by a tree. 

Mr Duffy said that the TII erected the sign but that even before it was covered, compliance was an issue. 

He did say they have a plan for work that will restrict turning onto that street. 

Rural areas

While on the topic of tonne signage, Cathaoirleach, Cllr Michael Smith asked the council to add more signage prohibiting HGV traffic in rural areas.

He said that the roads become damaged due to trucks using them as “an easy route” and it would save a lot of hardship to provide more signs.