ELECTED representatives in Castlebar are seeking a number of guarantees in respect of proposed new motorway between Turlough and Westport which may get the green light within three years.

Independent Councillor Frank Durcan has called for plans to be scrapped to erect razor wire between carriageways.

He said it has resulted in causing some horrific accidents involving motorcyclists in other parts of Europe.

“Serious consideration should be given to erecting concrete barriers in their place. Razor barriers should not be allowed as they have been responsible for thousands of deaths.”

He was supported by Councillor Blackie Gavin who described razor wire as ‘highly dangerous’

Councillor Thérése Ruane and Councillor Harry Barrett also called for a study on the likely impact on local business as a result of the motorway bypassing the town.

Stated Councillor Barrett: “Retail trade in the town is already reduced by 35 per cent as a result of the recession and there will be further setback as a result of traffic being diverted away from Castlebar.

“I am particularly concerned about the impact on petrol stations, restaurants, hotels and bed and breakfast establishments. I think more thought should be put into this aspect. We need to be helping our business people as much as we can.”

Councillor Ruane said it is important to know from a retail perspective what the impact is going to be.

Paul Hyland, senior roads engineer, said the town of Castlebar is unique insofar as it attracts traffic from every corner of the county.

“I am confident that the motorway bypassing Castlebar will not have a negative impact. In fact, it will allow the town to breath again. The existing N5 is at capacity.

In regard to the reservations expressed over the razor wire, he agreed the matter will be examined.

The Mayor, Councillor Eugene McCormack, agreed the motorway way bypassing Castlebar will have a positive impact on the town

 

 

 

Over €3m. spent to date  on proposed motorway

 

A SUM of €3 million has already been spent on the proposed new motorway between Turlough and Westport, it has been revealed.

Members of Castlebar Town Council were told the outlay related mainly to consultancy fees and other preliminary works.

A total of 690 acres of land are being acquired to maker way for the 27-kilometres route which bypasses Castlebar.

Public information meetings in respect of the road takes place in Castlebar and Turlough on June 12, 13 and 14 next