€400,000 of safety improvement works at two busy junctions in Mountrath and Borris-In-Ossory on the R445 road, formerly the N7 main road, are due to commence next week.
Cathaoirleach of Laois County Council, Conor Bergin, confirmed that the works will commence on Tuesday.
He said: “In February, I was pleased to confirm that €200,000 had been secured by Laois County Council under a specific improvement grant at Derrin Cross on the R445 at Borris-In-Ossory.
“Another €200,000 was also secured for improvement works also on the R445 at Redcastle Junction (junction where the roads meet for Trumera and Ballyfin) outside of Mountrath’
“I have spoken to the Senior Engineers in Laois County Council and I can confirm that works at Redcastle Junction outside Mountrath are due to begin next Tuesday November 16.
“This has been long-awaited, and I can also confirm that works at Derrin Cross in Borris-In-Ossory will commence shortly afterwards.
“I am advised by Laois County Council that 18 new public lights will be erected at Derrin Cross in Borris-In-Ossory, along with new chevron signage, road markings and a concrete traffic island.
“Sadly, there have been a number of fatal accidents at Derrin Cross in years past, and currently there is only one light at this junction which is arguably one of the busiest in County Laois.
“Derrin Cross, just outside of Borris-In-Ossory is the convergence of the R445 (old N7 Dublin to Limerick road) and R434 road which goes to Ballacolla, Durrow and Kilkenny.
“I am pleased to confirm that more public lighting will finally be erected at this junction, after many years of waiting.”
Cllr Bergin also confirmed that public lights would be erected at a junction outside Mountrath.
He said: “At Redcastle Junction outside Mountrath, I understand that 24 new public lights will be erected, along with pavement (road) surfacing, road widening and a reinforced barrier.
“Living in Borris-In-Ossory, I travel this road myself twice on almost a daily basis and I am aware of both how busy and dangerous this junction currently is for local residents in Mountrath, Trumera and Ballyfin and I am hopeful that these works will make our roads safer for everyone.
“Maintaining our regional and local road network in County Laois is not only important for connectivity, but crucial to ensuring safety on our roads, reducing road collisions and protecting lives.”
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