Move to tackle 'rampant boy racer activity' in Mayo town
Councillors in Ballina want something done about 'rampant boy racer activity' in the community.
The cathaoirleach of the municipal district, Councillor Seamus Weir, tabled a notice of motion expressing 'deep concern and frustration' with the issue.
His motion read: “It has come to my attention that these illegal and dangerous practices have been escalating in recent months without sufficient intervention from the local government.
"I believe it is crucial for immediate action to be taken to address this issue. On a daily basis, residents of our community are subjected to excessive noise, dangerous driving, and the blatant disregard for traffic rules and public safety by these boy racers. It is not only a nuisance but also constitutes a significant risk to the well-being of the residents, including children and pedestrians.”
The motion continued: “Furthermore, these activities often occur during late hours, disrupting our sleep and causing distress to many of us who are law-abiding citizens.”
Councillor Weir urged the local government to take 'appropriate measures' to address the issue.
His suggestions are as follows: increasing police presence and patrols in areas identified as hotspots for boy racer activity; enforcing strict penalties and hefty fines for those engaging in illegal racing, including vehicle impoundment; and installing speed bumps, traffic cameras, or any necessary traffic calming measures in key locations prone to boy racer activities.
Councillor Weir's motion concluded: “It is paramount for the local government to prioritize the safety and well-being of its citizens by implementing immediate and effective measures to combat boy racer activity. Failure to address this issue can have severe consequences on our community's reputation, quality of life, and overall cohesion.
“I request a prompt response regarding the actions that will be taken to address this matter. I am willing to support any initiatives or volunteer my time to assist.”
He identified some hot spots as the Teeling Street (Diamond's Yard) car park, Abbey Street and the N26.
Councillor Mark Duffy seconded Councillor's Weir's motion, saying he too gets regular complaints, particularly about Diamond's Yard.
Councillors Annie May Reape and Michael Loftus supported the motion too, with the latter pointing out that enforcement and confiscation of cars if they are not roadworthy is the only way to do it.
In a written response, acting senior executive engineer, Orla Bourke, said the notice of motion would be referred to Mayo County Council's special policy committee on roads, and they would request An Garda Síochána to monitor and enforce at known locations.
Ms. Bourke also said that a review of layout in Teeling Street car park is being carried out with a view to introducing speed-reducing measures.