N60 Mayo junction 'must be fit for purpose', council told

THE controversial junction linking the L5759 Balloor Road and N60 Breaffy Road outside Castlebar must be fit for purpose, council officials have been told.

A local deputation of residents have again attended the monthly municipal district meeting, where the lack of communication since their last visit was highlighted by councillors.

Municipal head David Mellett, in an update, said the section of road widening south of the junction will be surfaced next week.

Minor works to bring down the elevation between the roads will take place in the next three to four weeks, and a date will be sought from the contractor.

A third element reviewing the kerb aligning after that will be minor in nature and is tied into national guidelines. But there is some adjustment that can be made, he said.

Having travelled the route on numerous occasions, Councillor Blackie Gavin said he isn't happy with what he sees.

And if it isn't done right from the start, 'we are in serious trouble', he warned.

A hope that 'common sense will prevail' was expressed by cathaoirleach Councillor Al McDonnell.

Disappointment was expressed by Councillor Michael Kilcoyne that no one had contacted residents in the last month, with Councillor Ger Deere also stressing the need for communication.

Mr. Mellett said he would bring the comments back to the roads design office. There may be some flexibility, but they are constrained by the national guidelines, he added.

Frank Forde told the meeting of his experience meeting a low-loader carrying earth moving equipment at the junction. They both ended up with wheels on the kerbs as there wasn't enough room.

It needs to be widened and he did not have confidence regarding 'minor adjustments'.

On standards, he said it isn't a one fits all situation and it needs to be widened to accommodate all traffic. The junction, he stressed, has to be fit for purpose.

Councillor McDonnell suggested a meeting with a deputation of residents, councillors and the roads design office, noting how they were in a bit of a vacuum as the decision makers weren't at the municipal meeting.

Another issue in the locality, coming off the IDA roundabout near Meissner, was raised by Councillor Cyril Burke who said there's limited room for two artic trucks to pass each other.

Two hauliers told him how they have to stop as they can't pass each other on the carriageway.

* Funded under the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme