Discussions on lower urban speed limits in Mayo to start next year

NEW 30kph urban speed limits are to be implemented in Mayo and across the country by March 2027.

To meet that deadline, discussions with councillors will commence in early summer next year.

Elected representatives have been looking for reduced limits in a number of areas, including schools, but have been unable to progress them with a national policy in the offing.

However, Councillor Peter Flynn noted how government has now kicked it back to the councils, and he wants to see work starting, with talks about a county-wide review going on for at least six years.

Speaking at a Westport-Belmullet Municipal District meeting, he highlighted a number of areas where a reduced speed limit is needed: Slí na Miseán on the West Road in Westport, Lecanvey, Glenhest, the approach into and out of Louisburgh and Killeen, among other locations.

In towns, the speed of some buses and trucks passing people on footpaths was highlighted by Councillor Flynn. And speed limits need to be brought down in town centres.

Acting head of roads Conrad Harley said towns and villages will be included in the review.

Limits at schools - urban and rural - are to be reduced to 30kph, with periodic limits at school opening and closing.

Mr. Conrad also explained how if a road has a lot of vehicles travelling at a much higher speed than the limit, the department want them to bring in safety measures first to reduce speed, such as ramps, pedestrian crossings, narrowed kerbs and junctions, before bringing down the limit as the second measure.

Councillor Brendan Mulroy urged for an exception for Glenhest school, proposing a 30kph limit now, which the community have been seeking for six years.

They have been let down by the government and council, he said, and it's a health and safety issue.

His proposal to have public consultation and deal with Glenhest was seconded.

* Published under the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme