Would a new roundabout make road-crossing safer at Letterkenny's Mountain Top?

The possibility of a new roundabout is under consideration to help alleviate traffic issues at Letterkenny’s Mountain Top.

The suggestion was made on the back of a motion by 100% Redress Party councillor Tomas Sean Devine, who asked the council for tables to be installed for pedestrians to cross the road between the two roundabouts at Optum in Letterkenny and Mountain Top on the N56.

The turn-off at Hegarty’s Ford Garage, Cllr Devine said, is becoming increasingly difficult for cars pulling out.

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“There is a very large amount of built-up housing estates there and we have a chapel of rest, most of the time it's literally impossible to get out onto that road,” he said. “You could be queued 20 cars back even if there isn’t a funeral on.

"I think tables would slow the traffic down and get people in and out of those estates. With the development of much-needed houses going on up there, and if we are encouraging people to walk, it would be a great help and make it much safer to do so."

Cllr Michael McBride seconded the motion and said the width of the road needs attention.

"There is always a case of another roundabout at the garage," he added.

Cllr McBride acknowledged that the roundabout would be close to the Knocknamona roundabout, but said that the Polestar roundabout and the roundabout at Ballyraine School are not far apart "and they help keep traffic moving".

In response to Cllr Devine's motion, the council said that the section of the N56 from Knocknamona to Mountain Top roundabout is included in a series of Active Travel and Traffic management projects as part of the Letterkenny Traffic and Transport Plan.

"This will incorporate safety measures including possible formal crossing points and/or other changes to cross sections and junctions to address both safety and capacity," said David McIIwaine, Senior Executive Engineer of the Roads section.

While no details can be confirmed yet, Mr McElwaine said it is hoped to commence the design in 2026 once the design and planning process for the preceding Creamery Junction to Knocknamona roundabout section is completed.

"In the interim immediate interventions will be considered as appropriate and if necessary," he said.