Council crews deployed to tackle controversial road layout on Wexford town hill – ‘I’m delighted this issue has now been resolved’

By Simon Bourke, Wexford People

Just days after it was raised by councillors in County Hall, works to reconfigure Mulgannon Hill in Wexford town have commenced. In 2021 council workers narrowed the road on Mulgannon Hill, installing islands and bollards the length of the hill along with speed bumps. A turning lane towards Wexford Golf Club was also removed, while beyond the entrance to Cromwellsfort Heights, new line markings put a small bend in the road right at the brow of the steep hill.

However, the layout has been a continual source of frustration for residents and motorists and, at the February meeting of the Wexford Borough District, Councillor Biddy Walsh called upon senior engineer Lar Lett to reassess the bollards.

“What are they for?” she asked. “I do not see the point of them. Is there a particular reason for them, and if not, can we take them out?”

Having been recently appointed to his role, Mr Lett said he was not responsible for installing the bollards. “One of the previous engineers installed those to try and calm the traffic,” he said. “I have no problem going back to see if there’s anything I can do to make it a little bit safer.”

True to his word, Mr Lett deployed a crew to Mulgannon after the meeting and a number of measures, including road repairs, reinstatement of surfacing, and safety works were carried out at Cromwellsfort Heights this week.

Welcoming the works, Cllr Robbie Staples said he had been communicating with residents in the area since he was first elected in 2024.

Cllr Staples said the quick turnaround demonstrated the positive impact of direct engagement between residents, local representatives, and council staff.

“I want to sincerely thank Lar Lett for his swift and decisive action,” said Cllr Staples. “Once the concerns were raised, he moved quickly to assess the situation and ensure the necessary works were carried out without delay. The residents of Cromwellsfort Heights deserve safe and reliable access to their homes, and I’m delighted this issue has now been resolved.”

Cllr Staples reaffirmed his commitment to continuing to work with residents and council officials to address local infrastructure issues across Wexford.

“My priority is always to ensure that residents’ concerns are heard and acted upon. I will continue to advocate for improvements, and I appreciate the cooperation shown by council staff in delivering solutions like this one.”