‘Room for Manoeuvre’ needed on Ennis cycle way

THE position of planters and bollards on the segregated cycle way on Clonroadmore are forcing motorists to cross the centre line of traffic it has been claimed. Councillor Johnny Flynn told the monthly meeting of the Ennis Municipal District that the planters and bollards from the front of St Flannan’s to the Kilrush Road should be adapted. He insisted this is needed so that drivers exiting estates and private houses “can do so without crossing the centre line onto oncoming traffic”.

Eamon O’Dea, Senior Executive Engineer, in his written reply stated, “The Road Design office have confirmed that all the junctions comply with DMURS. On the tighter junction radius the driver has to approach the junction square to the main road and then rotate to the left. If the driver proceeds to cut the corner they will either mount the kerb (hit the bollard) or have to cross the centre line to turn left. The purpose of the tighter radii is to reduce speed of vehicles.”

Councillor Flynn argued that the road is “very, very narrow” with some residents facing difficulty exiting their drive-ways. The meeting took place as council engineers dealt with the Red Weather warning with the arrival of Storm Barra and Mr O’Dea was therefore unable to attend. Councillor Flynn requested that the matter be followed up with council engineers at a later date. The motion was seconded by Councillor Ann Norton. Councillor Paul Murphy stated his hope that there would be “room for manoeuvre” found. He also acknowledged the success of the cycle path. “It has been brilliant and I see kids cycling it on a daily basis.”