Portlaoise shoppers at Kyle Centre and Laois Shopping Centre causing traffic tailbacks
'Constant stream' of pedestrians delaying passing cars say Laois councillors
A pedestrian crossing between two Portlaoise shopping centres is so busy it's causing traffic tailbacks.
The crossing that was installed at the foot of steps to Laois Shopping Centre after many requests by local councillors, has created a "constant stream" of shoppers to the Kyle Centre across the Kylekiproe Road.
Now a councillor wants stop go lights installed to give traffic a chance to drive through, while shoppers wait for the green man to cross.
Cllr Catherine Fitzgerald has tabled a motion to the January meeting of Portlaoise Municipal District, asking Laois County Council to review it.
"I noticed it before Christmas, it was so busy. We all looked for that crossing but we've ended up with a constant stream of people crossing. Cars are delayed up to Aldi.
"The traffic lights are up the road (at the wheelchair ramp) but they're never used. Could we swap them so there are certain times to cross? To see could we get a better flow of traffic?" she asked.
The motion was seconded by Cllr Caroline Dwane Stanley.
"It's a pity the crossing time is not staggered," she said.
"It's like Christmas Eve every day. Portlaoise is a growing town. You drive from A to B now and you have to allow 15 minutes for it. There is always traffic turning off that road. It's like James Fintan Lalor Avenue when it opened first, it's carrying that volume of traffic," he said.
In response, Laois County Council's Roads Design staff are going to visit the crossing to assess the need, and the feasibility of "improvements" and make the appropriate changes.