Laois wheelchair user was forced onto busy N80 national road

Laois County Council has been asked to make a footpath wheelchair friendly in Stradbally after a local person was forced onto the busy N80.

Fine Gael Cllr Vivienne Phelan wants a "dished kerb" outside Cill Beg Manor Estate. She explained that she had been approached by a wheelchair user who highlighted the issue.

Cllr Phelan said that when the person reached Cill Beg Manor on the footpath, there is no way to get off the path and they had to go out on the N80.

“I think it needs to be prioritised," said the Stradbally-based councillor.

Her motion was seconded by Fianna Fail Cllr Padraig Fleming, who said the work was needed for wheelchairs and people using buggies.

Outside motorways, the N80 is one of the busiest national roads in Laois and is the primary route between Portlaoise and Carlow.

In a written response, the Roads Department stated that: “The active travel engineer will consider Cill Beg Manor for future junction tightening works subject to available funding.”

READ ALSO: 'Beggers beyond belief - a disability house with a bath' - Laois councillor rails

Cllr Phelan thanked the Council for the response.

The issue was discussed during the latest meeting of Portarlington Graiguecullen Municipal District.