No changes planned to N15 Rosses Point junction due to ‘road safety’ concerns

By Philip Rooney, The Sligo Champion

A motion calling for a filter light on the N15 approaching the turn to Rosses Point to remain green unless traffic travelling southbound has right of way or a pedestrian pushes a button to cross the road was heard at this month's meeting of Sligo County Council.

Putting the motion before the Council, Cllr Donal Gilroy called for Sligo Council to “Change the left turn arrow in the northbound lane on the junction with the R291 to always stay green unless the right turn arrow is green for southbound traffic on the N15 or a pedestrian has pushed the button to cross the R291.”

Cllr Gilroy said it is often the case that the yellow box often becomes blocked because traffic is at a standstill. “I have had numerous complaints from people in Rosses Point and Cartron.”

Outlining matters further, Cllr Gilroy explained, “Currently the lights only appear to be green when the light is green for northbound traffic to proceed on the N15. When traffic is emerging from the R291 onto the N51 there should be no reason why traffic cannot proceed onto the R291 from the N15 and avoid backups and delays onto the N15 and the junction with the N16.”

Pouring cold water on the motion, Jim Molloy Director of Climate and Infrastructure, Sligo County Council explained, “The traffic going straight ahead see that (green) light as well. It is a road safety issue.”