Concerns raised over road safety near Meath national school
Calls have been made for additional traffic safety measures on a stretch of road in Meath used by children travelling to school.
The issue was raised at the March meeting of the Ratoath Municipal District by Fianna Fáil councillor Caroline O’Reilly, who asked Meath County Council to review traffic management measures on the R154 through Batterstown.
The motion follows ongoing concerns from residents and parents of pupils attending Rathregan National School about safety on the route, which is used by heavy goods vehicles, school traffic and pedestrians.
A traffic ramp installed recently in the area was welcomed, but Cllr O’Reilly said further measures are needed.
“The ramp that was installed is a positive step, but it is clear from speaking with residents and parents that it is not enough on its own,” she said.
“Children are walking and travelling this route every day, and we need to ensure that the road environment reflects that.”
In response, Meath County Council said Part 8 planning permission is in place for the Batterstown Traffic Calming Scheme, but funding has not yet been approved by the Department of Transport.
The council said a number of traffic calming measures have already been introduced under its Traffic Calming Policy.
“The Municipal District Engineer will review signage, cut back hedges and refresh road markings on the approach to the existing ramps and around the school,” the council said.
“These works will be added to the works list to enhance safety in the area.”
The council added that its Road Safety Officer will continue to work with gardaí in relation to speed enforcement in the area.
Cllr O’Reilly said “waiting indefinitely” for funding was not “acceptable” while safety concerns remain.
“We cannot simply wait while safety concerns persist,” she said.
“The council has the ability to implement interim measures using its own resources, and that should happen while we continue to push for the full scheme.”