Works to improve safety at N5 junctions in east Mayo

WORKS to improve safety at two junctions on the N5 Swinford bypass are taking shape.

Central islands have been installed on both Kiltimagh road exits onto the N5, at the Applegreen service station and the nearby junction leading into Swinford via Tesco.

The central raised area, along with kerbing on the left at both junctions, reduces traffic exiting onto the N5 to a single lane, improving visibility for motorists.

A raised, kerbed area is also in place outside Applegreen, making for more defined entrance and exit points.

Yesterday line marking was taking place at the junctions as part of the upgrade by TII. Bollards have now been removed and permanent arrow directional signage installed.

Both Kiltimagh road exits have been the scene of numerous accidents over the years, with frequent calls for safety all along the route to be addressed.

Reaction from motorists to the latest works have been mixed but as local Councillor Adrian Forkan, who has been advocating for safety measures since elected, stated: “Anything that makes exiting on the N5 safer is welcome.”

Last October average speed cameras were installed on the bypass, at Lislackagh and Culmore, in a bid to reduce speed and the number of accidents occurring on the N5.