Cleveragh Drive to get new footpaths, cycle lanes and raised crossings in ‘significant upgrade’ plan

By Philip Rooney, The Sligo Champion

The issue of road safety along Cleveragh Drive was highlighted at the recent meeting of the Sligo Borough Municpal District with Cllr Declan Bree expressing frustration that 12 months after submissions were made by local residents, there have been no improvements.

Cllr Bree’s motion asked that, “The automated illuminated road sign on Cleveragh Drive, indicating drivers’ speed, be reinstalled, and a new pedestrian crossing (similar to the pedestrian crossing at the entrance of the industrial park) be provided just below the side entrance to the Racecourse, and further that the Roads Department consider constructing additional speed ramps along the residential section of Cleveragh Drive.”

A reply issued by Director of Services ,Jim Molloy, in advance of the meeting confirmed improvement works will be carried out, including the restoration of the illuminated speed warning sign.

“The Area Office will arrange for the repair of the Driver Feedback Sign. The Active Travel Section is currently at detailed design stage for a significant upgrade of Cleveragh Drive. The works consist of new footpaths, new cycle lanes and improved traffic management criteria along this section of road. Additional raised pedestrian crossings will be provided.”

Speaking to his motion, Cllr Bree commented, “Twelve months ago submissions were made to the Council by residents of the Tonaphubble and Cleveragh Drive area regarding plans being developed by the Active Travel Section of the Council.

“Particular concern was expressed regarding the need for additional measures aimed at improving safety for pedestrians and cyclists.

“It would appear that to date there has been no feedback from the Active Travel Team and residents of Cleveragh Drive are growing concerned with the significant level of speeding traffic on that road.”

Highlighting the concerns of elderly residents, Cllr Bree added, “Cleveragh Drive has a considerable number of senior citizens who certainly have concerns about being safely able to cross the road to the walking path due to the speed with which vehicular traffic proceeds in both directions.

“They have pointed out that the Driver Feedback Sign, located on the road between the side entrance to the racecourse and the Sports Centre was malfunctioning and then removed by the Council. They are anxious to have it reinstalled at the soonest possible time.

“They have also asked the Council to consider providing a pedestrian crossing in the same area.

“In addition they have asked for additional speed ramps or raised pedestrian crossings which will compel vehicles to slow down.”

Referring to the reply issued by Mr Molloy, Cllr Bree remarked, “I note the report I have now received from the Director of Services and I welcome the commitment to have the Driver Feedback Sign repaired and reinstalled on the road. I also welcome the commitment to construct additional raised pedestrian crossings on the road.

“The raised pedestrian crossings will certainly ensure that vehicles slow down.

“I also expect that the proposed new footpaths, new cycle lanes and improved traffic management as outlined in the Directors Report, will be warmly welcomed by residents.”

In reply to Cllr Bree’s request for a timeline to be provided, Director of Services Brian Flynn commented, “We don’t have timelines. I will get them and report back.”

Article Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.