Lively debate over newly raised ramps installed on the Cockhill Road in Buncrana
Motorists warn of vehicle damage and poor visibility, while others say measures improve safety at Westbrook Bridge junction
A newly installed raised ramp and pedestrian crossing on the Cockhill Road in Buncrana has sparked mixed reactions among motorists, with many raising concerns about its height and visibility, while others believe it will improve safety at a busy junction by slowing traffic.
Contractors working on behalf of Donegal County Council recently completed the ramp near Westbrook Bridge, around 100 yards from an existing traffic calming measure on the opposite side of the junction.
The issue has generated significant debate online after the Inishowen Independent shared a video of the ramps on social media, asking readers whether one ramp would have been sufficient or if two was two too many.
A recurring concern among commenters was the steepness of the newer ramp. Several motorists claimed it could pose a risk to the underside of vehicles.
Karol Doherty said a car in front of him “nearly bounced off the road” after crossing it, while Marion Doherty described it as “very steep” and warned that “a lot of cars will be damaged, especially the lowered ones”.
Others echoed those concerns, with Janet Dunne suggesting the ramp “could cause damage to springs under the cars,” and Cecelia Furey stating simply: “It’s too high.”
Janice Doherty also pointed to the lack of clear markings, saying she had “seen quite a few cars hit it at speed as it isn’t noticeable,” adding that white lines and signage should be installed as a matter of urgency.
Visibility was another common theme, with calls for improved lighting and clearer road markings. Steven Pocci urged that the ramp should be finished properly “before someone loses something important from the undercarriage,” while Don Mc Guinness and Tracey Bradley both highlighted the need for lighting or flashing signals to alert drivers.
Despite the criticism, a number of contributors felt the additional ramp could have safety benefits, particularly for traffic emerging from the nearby Westbrook junction. There’s a 50 kilometres per hour speed limit on that section of the R238, with the ramps forcing vehicles to slow down even further.
Des McGonigle said having two ramps is good for safety reasons, noting that some drivers approach the town too quickly, though he agreed clearer warnings, marking and lighting are needed. Sally McDaid said it is now easier to pull out at Westbrook with the ramps, while Caolan McDaid suggested it “might slow up the traffic coming into Buncrana to give people a chance to pull out.”
Claire Flannery O’Hagan also acknowledged the improvement at the junction, saying it would be easier for drivers exiting Westbrook Bridge, though she questioned whether the investment could have been better spent elsewhere.
Some residents suggested that traffic calming measures might have been more effective in other locations around the town. Marion Doherty thought the ramp could have been installed closer to Cloncool Park, while Darragh McLaughlin pointed to the Shore Road, where he said speeding is a concern close to several schools. Declan McNelis also highlighted the need for measures near the nursing unit, claiming vehicles often travel at outrageous speed downhill in that area.
Several commenters thought that traffic lights would be a better solution at Westbrook Bridge.
They may be their wish soon enough - although that will be another couple of hundred yards away at the Causeway Road junction where plans for the new three school campus include traffic lights adjacent to the General’s Shop.