Appeal to upgrade cycle lane between two Laois towns

The cycle lane between Abbeyleix and Durrow needed upgrade to promote cycling, Laois County Council has been told.

Cllr Ollie Clooney, Independent, made the appeal to the local authority in relation to the busy stretch on what is also the main link between Kilkenny and Laois.

He tabled a motion at a recent meeting with officials call on ton the council to enhance and upgrade the existing cycle lanes on the N77 to comply with safe cycling practice.

“The cycle lanes enhance connectivity between these two Laois towns and promote tourism and business in this area.  Also, these cycle lanes promote safe cycling as a healthy lifestyle choice in both communities,” he said.

He explained that the lane has become overgrown in some places with bushes and grass.

He added that the cycle link between the two towns helps maintain the good relationship between the communities. 

Cllr John King, Fine Gael, backed his colleague saying it was a ‘shocking busy road’. He said it is important that the cycle lanes are in colour.

Cllr James Kelly, Independent, also endorsed the appeal. He added that a lane between Mountrath and Castletown is also needed.

James Dowling, Senior Executive Engineer, Roads Design, replied in writing.

“The road design office will seek funding from TII for funding the upgrade of the existing cycle lane,” he said.

Cllr Clooney said that he was delighted that the work was going to be completed. He added that, ideally, the lane would be raised from the rest of the road.

“I suppose we’ll have to walk before we can run,” he said.

The issue was raised at the recent Borris-in-Ossory Mountmellick Mountmellick Municipal District meeting.