Discussions under way over proposed road closure in North Mayo town
Minister Dara Calleary says OPW and Mayo County Council are examining alternatives to reduce disruption for 16 affected families
Discussions are under way between the Office of Public Works (OPW) and Mayo County Council in an effort to find a solution to concerns over a proposed road closure at Rakestreet, Crossmolina.
The closure is required to facilitate construction of a bridge as part of the major Crossmolina Flood Relief Scheme. However, 16 families in the Rakestreet Road area could face a closure lasting up to 12 months, with some residents potentially required to take a diversion of around 12km to reach Crossmolina town.
Minister Dara Calleary said he had been contacted about the issue by Cllr Michael Loftus and had raised the concerns with Minister for the OPW Kevin ‘Boxer’ Moran.
“People will be aware that the Flood Relief Scheme is progressing at pace in Crossmolina and I think everybody is happy with the progress and everybody wants to see the project completed,” Minister Calleary said.
“However, there are concerns in the Rakestreet Road area where 16 families are affected by a road closure associated with the works of the scheme that would see the road closed for up to 12 months.”
He said he had insisted that the impact on residents travelling to work, school and carrying out everyday activities should not be minimised.
Minister Moran and OPW officials are now engaging with Mayo County Council to examine possible alternatives that would allow the flood scheme works to continue while taking account of residents’ concerns.
“I am hopeful that we can avoid that level of diversion and disruption for residents,” Minister Calleary said.
He added that Cllr Loftus is working with local residents and has identified alternative options which are now being considered.
Minister Calleary stressed the importance of the Crossmolina Flood Relief Scheme, describing it as a major investment that will also facilitate further regeneration work in the town once completed.
“The Flood Scheme is a major investment in Crossmolina and will allow for additional substantial investment in the regeneration of the town once the scheme is completed,” he said.“It is important that the works involved in the scheme can continue but we do have to facilitate the affected residents.”