West Care Railway signs removed

DIRECTOR of the West Clare Railway in Moyasta Jackie Whelan has expressed surprise at the removal of two aluminium signs, which he values at €2,500 each. Mr Whelan says the National Roads Authority (NRA) have acknowledged that the signs were removed by a sub-contractor, with the knowledge of Clare County Council.

“The problem is that if they told us about it itself, coming up to the tourism season we could have done something about it. We could have re-erected them somewhere else or put them up on our own land.

I’ve people going up and down the road here now, in buses and cars, missing the place. They are coming here asking, ‘why don’t yet put up a sign?’ Mr Whelan told The Clare Champion.

“My signs are up for 16 years and I got permission for them. I’ve spent €28,000 here putting in footpaths, kerbing and lights. I got permission that time to put up those signs and they’re there since,” he added, noting that legal action may be required to prove his case.

“As far as I know under the regulations, any sign that’s up seven years is entitled to stay there. Although we might have to go to the lad with the wig [Judge] to find that out. I’m determined about this,” Mr Whelan said.