There will be no new roundabout built in Stradbally, Transport Infrastructure Ireland has indicated.
The government body was requested to construct one on the N80 in Stradbally at the junction of Rathmore Road and Abbeyleix Road – the top of the town.
The proposal was brought forward by Cllr Tom Mulhall but he was informed by council engineer Farhan Nasiem that TII did not seem to be in favour of it.
He said: “This has been discussed with the TII but initial indications are that a roundabout is not justified at this location.
“We are awaiting an update and final confirmation from TII on this.”
Cllr Tom Mulhall believes that this is a perfect location for a roundabout and would help slow down traffic in the town.
He said: “I think it is an ideal location and it would stop the problem with cars speeding through Stradbally – both going down the town and up it.
“There’s a substantial wide area there and I think if a roundabout was put in place, there’d be no need for the speed detection van at the top of the town.
“So I would certainly like to see one done and I await the second update from TII.”
A speed van has regularly been positioned on either side of the road at the top of Stradbally and Cllr Paschal McEvoy would like to see it removed.
He says that the van has ‘overstayed its welcome’.
“I agree with Cllr Mulhall. It would certainly slow down the traffic because there is nothing to slow down traffic accept the speed van at the top of the town.
“And to be honest with you, I think he should be got rid of as well because he is just picking up easy money off people and giving out points.
“He’s there long enough now and it’s time to move on to somewhere else.
“Anyway, the roundabout is badly needed and I can’t see why TII would not want to build one.”
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