Speeding in Roscommon a big issue as drivers become 'more aggressive'
Measures to address speeding in Roscommon are needed, a recent meeting heard.
Speeding on Castle Street in Roscommon Town was again highlighted at a recent meeting of the Roscommon Municipal District.
Following on from a previous motion, retiring councillor Orla Leyden asked for an update on measures to address speeding on the road.
Mr Tom McDermott of Roscommon County Council told the councillors that a speed survey had been carried out over a week and that 15 per cent of vehicles were speeding. He added that approximately 2 or 3 per cent of the vehicles were over 60km.
Ms Leyden said the residents observed speeding all the time. “Whenever I am driving on that street or walking on it, I see speeding. For any resident trying to come out their own drive, they don’t’ feel safe,” she said. “It certainly is extremely dangerous.” She added that she felt people were becoming more aggressive on the roads in the town.
“There is a small percentage that are dangerous,” she said.
MD Cathaoirleach Anthony Waldron said speed was a problem throughout the county and country.
Retiring councillor Kathleen Shanagher said that there should be signs in the town reminding people to slow down.
Cllr Marty McDermott said that speeding on the Ballinagard Road was “lethal” and that the Golf Links road was shocking.
“It is a huge problem,” he said. “And it is something that needs to be addressed.”
Cllr Paschal Fitzmaurice said that while people were being encouraged to walk and cycle, “we are not doing anything to help them have a safer road crossing”.
“Whatever councillor is returned in the next election, I think we will have to look at more ramps in towns,” he said.
Cllr Nigel Dineen said that speeding was being brought up on the doorsteps throughout the municipal district.
“We definitely have a problem,” he said, highlighting it was also a significant issue in Lisacul.
Councillors also mentioned the recent meeting they held with the Irish Wheelchair Association about road safety.
Cllr McDermott said wheelchair users and people with mobility issues were “petrified” crossing the road.
