Safety concerns spark call for more bus stops in Laois towns and villages

Local councillors called for bus stops to be installed at Ballaghmore and across the county at the recent Borris in Ossory/Mountmellick Municipal District meeting on Wednesday, 12 November.

Cllr Conor Bergin raised the motion that Laois County Council install a bus stop at Ballaghmore for the Local Link bus service as people using the bus "need a safe place to stop."

He highlighted the fact that the popular 834 service that runs from Portlaoise to Roscrea often stops at Ballaghmore, scheduled or not scheduled. With many people from Ballaghmore using the service, Cllr Bergin said if there was a designated spot on that main road it would make it much easier for people. 

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The councillor also suggested that it might be an opportunity to provide a car park at the spot and enhance it overall. Cllr Bergin said this issue has been addressed in other areas and that he hopes it will be tackled in 2026, emphasising: "We need a proper bus stop in Ballaghmore."

Cllr John King supported the motion, arguing that bus stops are needed throughout the county. He told the council that people are waiting outside private residences and shops, and without any shelter from the rain. 

Cllr King urged: "We have to look at the area as a whole and have a plan in place for next year. Bus stops should be put in every town and village."

In response to Cllr Bergin's motion, the council said Ballaghmore would be assessed for a bus stop.

Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme