Strong opposition to plan to introduce one-way system on Mayo street

Residents and retailers of Spencer Street in Castlebar are strongly opposed to plans by Mayo County Council to introduce a one-way traffic system there as part of an outdoor structural funding scheme.

A survey was conducted of the 38 residents, business and professional services operating along the street.

Of the 95% which responded to the survey conducted by the street's Residents & Traders Association, over 97% said they were 'strongly opposed' to the system with the remaining 3% 'opposed' to it.

A statement issued by the association outlined: "In general we found that besides the strongly-held views against a one-way, almost all had clear opinions on how the streetscape could be enhanced - with many of the ideas having little or no cost.

"Many are amazed that Transport for Ireland (TFI) still run buses through our street when clearly alternative routes are available.

"The removal of a couple of key parking spaces would also aid the traffic flow.

"The provision of short, say 10-minute, parking spaces near the Mall was mentioned by many.

"Removal of daytime parking permits, restricting permits to evenings only, was a popular view.

"Better street lighting was a common theme as was the provision of pedestrian crossings as no crossings exist from the roundabout to the Green.

"Traffic calming measures are much needed outside of business hours.

"The poor state of our footpaths was a key issue mentioned by the majority of the ratepayers and residents polled.

"An open conversation between the association and Mayo County Council officials would be most welcome and could prove very constructive.

"We, the ratepayers and residents of Spencer Street, welcome progress, seek improvements and need to be involved in the decision-making process - but are certainly opposed to the imposition of a one-way traffic system."

The statement was signed on behalf of the association by Paul Rodgers, Micheál McDermott and Gerry Tolster.