The issue of funding for the provision of footpaths and public lighting along the Ballytoohey Road in Tarmonbarry has been on Roscommon County Council’s agenda for 25 years, it has been claimed.
Cllr Tom Crosby made the claim when he raised the issue at the recent meeting of Boyle Municipal District. In his motion he stated, “This route serves the local national school and a densely populated area, including four housing estates connecting to Tamonbarry village.”
He said the road is used by commuters and is very busy.
“This has to be a top priority if we are serious about public safety and active travel. Children cannot walk to school as it is much too dangerous. I have had it on the agenda time and time again.”
In reply the council stated, “The project is at National Transport Authority Phase 2: Concept Development and Options Selection. No funding was received from the NTA in 2026 to progress the project onto the Preliminary Design Phase. Roscommon County Council is open to alternative funding opportunities to support the project should they arise.”
Cllr Crosby replied that he was glad that it has been progressed and he committed to keeping it on the agenda adding, “I am not someone who backs down.”
Cathaoirleach of the MD Cllr Sean Moylan said, “It has never been more important to have road safety for walkers and children cycling to school.
“All over the county we have a major issue with getting footpaths especially around schools, housing estates and care homes.”
He said many estates are being built outside of towns, and services are needed.
Cllr Liam Callaghan agreed that the matter of Ballytoohey Road had been raised on numerous occasions, calling it “a dangerous road.”
Cllr Valerie Byrne, supporting the motion, said that Active Travel was put in place to help small towns and villages but “this only lasted two years and then went to bigger towns.”
Cllr Crosby concluded by saying, “Nothing in the county compares to this situation in Tarmonbarry.”
*Published as part of the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme
