Motorists voice anger as another major Roscommon road is set to close

Motorists who have been left confused by several road closures in the West Roscommon area have voiced their anger over the situation while a call has been made for exceptions to be made for emergency service access.

Earlier this week it was announced that there are further delays to the re-opening of the R361 Frenchpark to Castlerea road, which has been closed since September 22nd to facilitate the N5 road project. The road was expected to reopen this Monday, November 3rd but the closure has been extended until November 14th with diversions in place.

Meanwhile the R361 Cloonarragh/R325 Cloonard road in the Castlerea/Loughglynn area is closed this week while from Monday, November 3rd the N5 at Tulsk and Frenchpark at Moneylea, Ballinagare will also close to facilitate resurfacing works. The road is set to be closed for 7-10 days with traffic being diverted to Boyle.

Local councillor and Ballaghaderreen fire station officer Michael Frain said emergency services need to be given access to some of these roads rather than having to divert down narrow roads. He said in these situations time is essential.

Many people took to social media to voice their anger with one person stating: “The Ballinagare to Castlerea road due to increase traffic flow, has now become the circuit of Ireland timed stage trial, it's like dodging a bullet travelling to work these days.” 

Another added: “Castlerea Frenchpark road closed so detour ends up being into Ballaghaderreen, Loughglynn and then into Castlerea or through Ballinagare into Castlerea. So now it’s decided to close the Loughglynn Castlerea road which is making it next to impossible for diverted traffic. Is there any planning at all behind all this.”

 Meanwhile, Cllr Sean Moylan, acknowledging the frustration of the public asked people to be patient as the works continue and to follow official diversions.