New path “urgently” needed at Ennis business park entrance

A NEW path is “urgently” needed for the safety of the public at the entrance to the Clonroad Business Park, according to a local councillor. However, while the Ennis Municipal District has said it recognises the need, a funding application to the National Transport Authority for the works has been unsuccessful.

Speaking at the monthly meeting of the Ennis Municipal District Councillor Tom O’Callaghan said that the path is vital due to the high numbers of pedestrians entering and exiting the business park describing it as an “extremely busy stretch”. He pointed out the site is home to an adult education campus, Enable Ireland and other businesses.

He added, “I believe a new roundabout is justified because of increased traffic from Dunnes, glór, Clonroad road plus the Clonroad business park and now a new library. This is a very busy juncture that certainly requires a traffic management review in my opinion.” He voiced concerns that the location is “not very safe”.

Paddy Tiernan, acting senior executive engineer, responded to the motion, “Ennis Municipal District recognise the need for a new pedestrian walkway to service the Clonroad Business Park. The project was put forward to the NTA for Active Travel funding in late 2022. Unfortunately the recent funding announcement by the NTA has confirmed our application was unsuccessful. Ennis MD will continue to investigate alternative funding sources and have recently completed a survey of the area with a view to getting the project ‘shovel ready’. This will strengthen any future application.”

While Conor McDonagh, executive engineer Active Travel, stated, “Clare County Council are currently in the process of procuring Consultants for the preparation of a Local Transport Plan (LTP) for Ennis town. This LTP is to be prepared in accordance with the Area Based Transport Assessment (ABTA) guidelines published by the National Transport Authority (NTA). Any alterations to the existing transport arrangements – including the road network – within the town will be dependent on the outcome of this process.”

Councillor O’Callaghan concluded, “This is not a big development to be done but it needs to be brought to the fore as a priority.”

Councillor Johnny Flynn gave his backing to the motion suggesting that the green area at Meadow Court could be utilised for the provision of a roundabout and a new footpath. Councillor Mary Howard stressed the importance of safe access for users of the business park, recalling that Enable Ireland have previously highlighted the need for accessibility.

Councillor Pat Daly said, “I see a lot of pedestrian traffic there going in and out, a roundabout would give protection to people.” Councillor Paul Murphy described the location as a “busy spot” saying he would support “anything that can be done to improve safety”.