Request for traffic lights at busy junction rejected

A request for traffic lights be installed at a busy junction in Shannon will not be granted, writes Owen Ryan.

At a meeting of Shannon Municipal District, Councillor Gerry Flynn requested the lights for Bóthar Droim/Bóthar na Rinne and the entrance to the Town Centre. He also asked that the existing pedestrian lights be located at the junction.

In a written reply, Senior Executive Engineer Tom Mellett remarked that government and mobility policy seeks to encourage more people to choose to walk or cycle and reduce unnecessary car use.

This, he said, aimed to help create a high quality urban environment that promotes healthy lifestyles and creates additional footfall in our town centres.

To support this, he noted a range of funding opportunities have emerged including Active Travel, Town Centre First Policy, URDF.

“Shannon has been included under Active Travel funding for a mobility plan,” said Mr Mellet.

“This will explore modes of transport, desire lines for walking and cycling routes and means of connectivity between the town centre of Shannon and adjacent residential, commercial and recreational areas as well as routes from the outer town settlements.

“The existing pedestrian crossing has recently been upgraded and safety functions for the range and scale of pedestrian usage. 

“It is considered any change would be premature pending the outcome of a more detailed integrated study.”

Councillor Flynn said that while he was grateful for the work that has been done to date, a lot of people use the junction and don’t bother going down to where the lights are.

He said that the type of development he was looking for is required to improve mobility and hopefully make the Town Centre more vibrant.

“I really think this measure has to happen,” he added.

Sinn Féin’s Donna McGettigan said that the junction is “extremely busy” and measures are required there.

“I have seen both drivers and pedestrians take chances there and it’s a wonder there has been no serious injury.”