Consultation on new Scariff traffic plan

Proposals to introduce a new traffic management plan for the town of Scariff are to be put out to further public consultation following material changes to the draft plan, a meeting of the Killaloe Electoral Area councillors has heard.

The issue was raised by Councillor Joe Cooney at last week’s meeting of the East Clare councillors, where he asked for an update on the proposed Scariff traffic management plan.

Mr Hugh McGrath, senior executive engineer, Killaloe Electoral Area, outlined that a draft plan for the new traffic system is on his desk to be circulated at the next meeting of the area councillors.

He said the draft has been prepared, taking into consideration the submissions made by members of the public during the public consultation process.

He said the draft plan addressed public concerns by either making changes to the plan or outlining why changes could not be made.

He highlighted that the plan had “changed to such an extent” from its original proposal that it was necessary to refer it out again for further public consultation as “material changes” had been made to it. 

In a formal reply to the motion, Mr McGrath said, “Following preparation of a draft plan in 2011, a public consultation has been undertaken.

“Subsequent to this consultation and having considered the submissions made under the process, as well as further consultation with the various stakeholders, a revised plan with amendments has been prepared.

“It is intended to advertise the amended proposals for public input again before the plan can be finalised.”

When asked by Councillor Cooney what the timeframe in implementing this traffic plan might be, Mr McGrath said that would be dependent on the availability of funding.

Councillor Pat Hayes said he was “disappointed” that it had taken “so long” to reach an agreement on the proposed plan and that it would necessitate a further period of public consultation.

He highlighted that the current two-way system on the hill into Scariff was causing “damage” to the town, as if people observed a hold-up on the hill they would avoid going into the town and bypass it.

In light of the long wait, he asked that the draft be circulated ahead of the next electoral area meeting for consideration by the members.