'Lethal is the only word I can think of,' Tipperary junction is causing havoc for drivers
A “very dangerous” junction at Barronstown, just outside Tipperary Town, was discussed at the February meeting of the Tipperary/Cahir/Cashel Municipal District with a motion that Barronstown Junction be examined and a safety report completed.
Councillor Roger Kennedy pointed out that there was “a very limited view” and that visibility is needed at the junction.
He made representations relating to the junction and the reply he got was that the council’s Roads Capital Officer received a number of representations in relation to Barronstown Junction, which has also been the subject of a recent Parliamentary question to the Minister for Transport.
The Roads Capital Office have requested details of historical data from Transport Infrastructure Ireland in respect of recorded accidents at this location and once the information is received will carry out an assessment as to any actions that are appropriate.
Councillor Kennedy suggested requesting a report on the information TII have applicable to Barronstown Junction so that the issue can be dealt with and funding secured.
Other councillors supported the motion at the meeting with Councillor John Crosse saying that “lethal is the only word I can think of” to describe the Junction before adding that “our role in it is minimal because it is a National road”, but said hopefully a solution can be found to the problem in the area.
Cllr Crosse asked if perhaps the TII or the Council could purchase the house on the corner if it’s still available which “create an opportunity to do something better there” because of how dangerous it is to drive on that portion of the road at present.
Councillor Michael Fitzgerald said he supported the motion fully but questioned the merit of gathering historical data and the merits of carrying out an assessment as the Roads Capital Office requested, saying: “My God if that’s not kicking the bucket down the road I don’t know what is.”
He pointed out the people living on the road wouldn’t be raising this issue if they weren’t sure of their facts regarding the dangers of Barrenstown Cross.
“We just need to call a spade a spade here, the work needs to be done.”
Councillor Black agreed with Cllr Fitzgerald and added that turning onto the Main National road at the Junction “is actually quite frightening”.
He felt the issue should have been dealt with years ago and also supported the call Cllr Crosse made to purchase the house at the corner saying: “every effort should be made if at all possible”.
Councillor Annemarie Ryan asked if the public would have a say in a speed limit review process and in response the council representative pointed out that guidance nationally needs to be updated and suggested a review of the matter before adding that councillors and members of the public could have their say and submissions would be reviewed but he imagined it would be the end of the year when that was carried out.