Update on dangerous Tipperary junction set to come before councillors next month
Turtulla cross outside Thurles has seen several bad accidents in recent years
Plans to improve safety at the notorious Turtulla Cross moved a step closer this month, with Thurles Municipal District councillors receiving a significant update on the long-awaited project.
The junction, located on the outskirts of Thurles, has been the scene of numerous serious collisions over the years and has long been a source of concern for local residents and public representatives. In 2015, a 47-year-old pedestrian lost his life after being struck by a vehicle at the junction, while a number of other serious incidents have occurred in the years since including one as recently as last month.
The issue was first raised at June's Thurles Municipal District meeting by newly elected Cathaoirleach Cllr Seán Ryan, who identified improvements at Turtulla Cross as one of his key priorities for the year ahead.
“I will use my year as Cathaoirleach to push for capital projects such as making the junction at Turtulla Cross safer and finally getting the CCTV programme for Littleton over the line,” he said.
The junction was raised again later in the meeting by Cllr Jim Ryan, who sought an update from district engineer Thomas Duffy following another recent collision.
“Since our last meeting, there’s been a very serious accident at that junction involving three cars, with one vehicle overturned,” he said.
“I was just wondering if there is any update on progressing Turtulla Cross?”
Cllr Kay Cahill Skehan echoed those concerns, describing the junction as “extremely dangerous” and also calling for an update on the proposed safety works.
Responding to the queries, Mr Duffy confirmed that progress was being made and indicated that the project is nearing a key milestone.
“A Part 8 submission is imminent and there will be a presentation at the July meeting, so I would say that is positive progress for that project,” he said.
The Part 8 process allows Tipperary County Council to seek planning approval for its own proposed development works and represents a significant step forward for a project that councillors have repeatedly called to be prioritised.