More traffic calming measures for busy Tipperary village

Thurles-Templemore Municipal District Council have passed a motion to institute further traffic calming measures in Ballycahill.

The motion was put forward at this week’s district council meeting by councillor Michéal Lowry and read:

“That this Municipal district carries out traffic calming and pedestrian safety improvement measures in Ballycahill village (R503) as a matter of urgency.

Cllr Lowry said an independent survey has shown that the average speed in the village is in the mid 60s. He said that despite its size, there is a lot of activity in the village.

“There has been a big shift in dynamic in Ballycahill since the new shop opened,” said Cllr Lowry.

He added that this might be a chance to implement some of the designs from the newly adopted speed deflection policy.

The council responded saying:

“If there is a consensus among elected members of Thurles MD, technical staff will commit to carrying out a speed survey in Ballycahill village.

“It should be noted that flashing speed radar signs have previously been installed in the village as part of traffic calming and safety improvement measures.”

Cllr Seamus Hanafin seconded the motion and saying traffic calming measures were ‘vital’ for the “very busy village.”

He said the flashing signs do work to raise a driver’s awareness of their speed but more was needed to slow down the traffic.

Cllr Lowry asked that the survey be done as soon as possible.