High speeds on Leitrim road used as shortcut threaten residents and pedestrians

A road being used as a shortcut by drivers into a village in North Leitrim is posing a hazard due to the speed of cars, a meeting of Manorhamilton Municipal District heard.

Cllr James Gilmartin requested that the Council undertake an assessment of the L4165 with a view to installing appropriate traffic management measures.

“This road is increasingly being used as a shortcut from the R287 into Dromahair village, resulting in significantly higher vehicle speeds that pose a danger to residents, pedestrians, and other road users,” stated Cllr Gilmartin’s motion, adding that this is happening especially in the morning.

He also noted that several large drains along this route require urgent attention as they present a serious safety hazard.

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“I request that the Council examine suitable interventions, including speed-reduction measures and necessary drainage works, to improve safety for all who use this road,” the motion concluded.

A reply from the Roads Department confirmed the Council will review this location but noted that local road L4165 has a maximum speed limit of 60 km/h, reducing to 50 km/h on the Dromahair side.

“It is also worth noting that the proposed new urban speed limits will seek a 30 kph periodic speed limit at the school location,” the response concluded.

Cllr Gilmartin responded by saying that the speed limit is not being adhered to at all. 

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Senior engineer for Manorhamilton MD, Paul McMahon, confirmed again that the road will be looked at, but emphasised that the issue is down to driver behaviour.