National Transport Authority approves Ballisodare bus stop move

By Philip Rooney, The Sligo Champion

Confirmation that the National Transport Authority has given approval for bus stops in Ballisodare to be moved to the Sligo Road, adjacent to the Old Mill apartments has been welcomed by Cllr Thomas Walsh.

Cllr Walsh said, “I welcome the news that the business case prepared by Sligo County Council has been accepted.

Cllr Walsh continued, “This is something I have raised over the last 24 months. The businesses, road users and bus users have approached me. Indeed, at the many recent consultations in Ballisodare this is something a lot of the community have raised.”

The Fine Gael representative said relocating these stops has many advantages; the bus can stop at a safer point and more accessible point, the N59 has its widest point along the Sligo Road so a safer set-down is achievable, the stop will be equally close in distance to local services.

Outlining the benefits associated with relocating the bus stop from its current locations, Cllr Walsh stated, “This move has a lot of potential as Sligo County Council are also exploring the provision of additional parking as part of the Rural Regeneration Development Project for Ballisodare.

“Sligo County Council recently purchased a piece of ground along the Sligo Road in Ballisodare (known as Browne’s field) and there is potential to use some of this ground for parking. I have had many discussions with the engineering team in the Local Authority and the RRDF consultants about creating a park and ride service from this point.”

Cllr Walsh also noted the NTA will explore the possibility of additional bus stops for Ballisodare on the Ballina side and the Collooney side of the village.

He added that it is hoped there will be an upgrade to existing infrastructure saying, “I can confirm that it is likely both bus stops will also be upgraded to shelters in the near future under the Bus Stop Enhancement Programme.”

Cllr Walsh concluded by thanking those involved in the process that resulted in this positive development for Ballisodare saying, “This is something I firmly believe is the right thing to do; for bus users, road users, the businesses, the local community and for improved safety.

“Perseverance pays off, I wish to acknowledge the work of our Road Department and Ballisodare Community Council.”

Article Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.