‘This in now an emergency’ – Laois town left waiting ‘far too long’ for road repairs

A town in Laois has been left waiting “for far too long” to have their public roads “brought up to an acceptable standard.”

That is according to Fine Gael Councillor John King, who was speaking at the February meeting of the Borris-in-Ossory-Mountmellick Municipal District.

Cllr King for Laois County Council to repair and resurface roads a number of roads in Rathdowney and Manor Stone Service Station in Ballacolla.

“This in now an emergency,” Cllr King said.

“This request from me is ongoing for far to long and now, following from the recent bad weather, these roads have got much worse.

“These roads have to be brought up to an acceptable standard.”

Mr Rory O’Callaghan, Senior Executive Engineer, confirmed that the R-433 Main Street and the R-435 Donaghmore are both included in the 2025/2026 Roads Programme.

Mr O’Callaghan acknowledged that the R-433 road condition rating at the Manor Stone Service Station “has deteriorated due to the recent severe weather.”

He confirmed this section of roadway would be prioritised for treatment once a review of the Roads Programme is approved.

Cllr King went on to ask about the previously requested drainage works to be done close to the Playground at St Fergal’s College, Rathdowney.

“Neighbours gardens are continually getting flooded due to these works not being carried out,” he said.

Mr O’Callaghan the MD “will carry out a level survey and will carry out the necessary works to alleviate the flooding.”

Cllr King also asked that the Council instruct all landowners that boundary ditches and trees on public roads must be cut back and made safe for drivers and pedestrians.

The Fine Gael Councillor referenced the recent damage caused by Storm Éowyn, saying “climate change is “climate change is here; we have to accept it and deal with the problems it causes.”

Mr Paul McLoughlin, Senior Engineer, said: “Laois County Council have over the last number of years published notices in the local press and on the Council website Laois.ie advising landowners of their obligation to manage and maintain trees on their lands adjacent to the public road.

“Laois County Council will repeat these public notices along with a social media campaign to reinforce the legal obligations on all landowners.”

SEE ALSO – New Primary Health Centre for Rathdowney but Borris-in-Ossory and Durrow set to miss out