New roadside memorials in Mayo not permitted in policy change
ROADSIDE memorials on routes with a speed limit above 60kph will not be permitted in the future under new government policy that has been circulated to local authorities, including Mayo County Council.
Councils are being asked to make alternative remembrance options available for people who have lost their lives in road tragedies, such as designated memorial gardens or public spaces.
The policy was brought to the attention of the Mayo roads strategic policy committee (SPC), and a proposal for its inclusion in the council's own policy on memorials will come before members in the new year.
The emotional significance of memorials is recognised by the Department of Transport and Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII). However, they say safety considerations are behind the shift in policy restricting memorials on what are deemed 'high speed' (above 60kph) roads.
A report circulated at the SPC meeting highlighted safety risks at memorials, including increased pedestrian activity in hazardous locations, the stopping, parking and manoeuvring of vehicles, maintenance activities such as grass cutting or decoration placement, and distraction to other road users.
Acting head of roads Conrad Harley said memorials are close to people's hearts and he was clear – they weren't removing any memorials but they were being asked to amend council policy not to allow any further ones to be erected.
At the moment, members of the public apply to the area engineer and they agree a location and size.
The council, he said, want to work with people and look at the options of what other things can be done. And he asked that people would talk with them and see what can be accommodated, as there may be alternatives.
Mr. Harley will bring a revised policy before the SPC for consideration at their next meeting. The ethos will be much the same but reflecting the request in the circular and other solutions.
Councillor Patsy O'Brien raised the possibility of a memorial park to remember lives lost on the roads.