Plans to reduce speed limit outside Ballintubber National School
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Proposed 30km/h limit would replace the existing 60km/h restriction at designated times, with changes expected in spring 2027
Plans to reduce the speed limit outside Ballintubber National School have been welcomed by Minister of State Alan Dillon, who said the proposed changes would help improve safety for children, families and other road users.
The proposals are included in the Road Traffic By-Laws 2026, which are currently subject to public consultation. They would introduce a periodic 30km/h speed limit around the school, replacing the existing 60km/h limit during designated times.
Minister Dillon said he had been in regular contact with Ballintubber Community Council, which identified traffic-calming measures at the school as a priority in its Ballintubber Futures Plan.
He said concerns had grown within the community following two significant accidents at the location in recent months, although neither resulted in reported injuries.
“There is a genuine and growing concern within the community that a serious accident could result in the loss of life if action is not taken,” Minister Dillon said.
He described the proposed speed reduction as a positive and practical measure to improve safety for pupils, parents, school staff and all road users.
Ballintubber Community Council has also been campaigning for a proper footpath between the National School and Corrigan’s stores.
Minister Dillon said residents had raised concerns that the existing pathway frequently becomes muddy and slippery, creating risks for pedestrians, particularly children and older people.
In correspondence with Minister Dillon, Ann Moore, Head of the Castlebar Municipal District, acknowledged the concerns raised by the community and confirmed that the proposed speed limit changes are expected to be implemented in spring 2027, subject to completion of the statutory process.
The public consultation remains open until November 3, and Minister Dillon has encouraged local residents, parents, school staff and other interested groups to make submissions in support of the proposed road safety measures.
He said the proposals reflected concerns and priorities consistently raised by local people and urged the community to take part in the consultation process.