Details of new Tullamore cycle network revealed

Details of the new Tullamore cycle network were presented to members at the July meeting of Tullamore Municipal District.

Senior Executive Engineer with Offaly County Council, John Connelly said that Aecom have been appointed as consultants to the project.

Phase 1 of the scheme extends north of the canal linking large residential areas to business parks, the GAA, Schools and the Hospital.

The cycling infrastructure will be predominately segregated for comfort and safety, said Mr Connelly. It will also result in reduced carriageway widths which force motorists to slow down.

Mr Connelly reported that the ''design concept is to provide a safe and comfortable cycling infrastructure suitable for cyclists of all abilities.''

Layout through Arden View

It is proposed to tighten the junction at Clontarf Road. ''There is a very wide junction there and it's almost impossible for a pedestrian to cross there without taking their life in their hands,'' said Mr Connelly. A two-way off-road cycle track will be created through Arden View. Raised pedestrian crossings will be added and a shared pedestrian/cycle way at Clontarf road and Clara Road junction.

Councillor Neil Feighery asked if this would help alleviate some of the issues regarding traffic congestion at Arden View. Mr Connelly said it would help.

Layout at Collins Lane/Educate Together

This will consist of segregated one way cycle lanes, raised crossings and will tie in with the new protection junction at Collins Lane, which is the first of its kind outside of Dublin.

Layout at Clara Road

Proposed Link through Sragh Technology Park

This will connect to Clara Road, to Sragh road and the railway station. It will also have segregated one-way cycle lanes and raised crossings.

Just recently the protection junction at Collins Lane became fully operational and is receiving positive feedback. The busy junction caters for pedestrians, cyclists and motorists.