A call has been made for urgent traffic calming measures and solutions in a Laois village.
Fianna Fail Councillor Padraig Fleming brought up the issue surrounding Arles village at a meeting of the Graiguecullen-Portarlington District recently.
Cllr Fleming called on Laois County Council to work with Transport Infrastructure Ireland on the issue.
Cllr Fleming said: “Arles is a beautiful village but there is a massive road safety issue there.
“There is a lovely footpath going down to Arles-Kilcruise’s GAA pitch but people feel unsafe because the cars are going too quickly when coming into the town.
We are also seeking a pedestrian crossing to be erected outside of Arles National School.
“There was a very serious accident recently where people were hurt.
“The reality now is that work needs to be carried out here immediately.
“The situation is that if two lorries meet on the road, there is simply no space.
“Maybe installing ramps would help the situation and slow traffic down.”
In response, engineer Paul McLoughlin confirmed that a review would take place.
He said: “Following consultation between Laois County Council and the TII Road Safety Section, a comprehensive review and assessment of the options will be undertaken.
“This will examine the extent of the speed limit withing the village for the provision of road safety and traffic calming measures.”
Separately, Cllr Fleming asked that the Council repair the footpath at the entrance to Imleach Estate in The Swan in the interest of health and safety.
Engineer Philip McVeigh said that this area has been expected and that works will be carried out.
Meanwhile, Cllr Fleming also requested works be carried out at the Spindlewood Estate in Graiguecullen.
He asked for the markings to be upgraded and that the ash trees be examined as ‘their roots are spreading underneath the ground at boundary walls in the estate’.
Engineer McVeigh said that he would meet Cllr Fleming at the location to examine these issues.
SEE ALSO – Local children raise money for Portlaoise Hospital through a Lemonade stand
