Speed Ramps Sought at Ballinhassig

Writes Leo McMahon

Speed ramps for Ballinhassig were requested by an Cathaoirleach Cllr Ben Dalton-O’Sullivan (Ind) at the recent meeting of the county council’s Carrigaline Municipal District (MD).

‘While awaiting funding for a full traffic calming scheme for the village, I am asking that the area office install ramps on the approach roads under a 1994 Road Traffic Act Section 38 scheme which can provide for these.’

Cllr Dalton-O’Sullivan further requested speed ramps at Waterfall where there was no traffic calming scheme, adding that last year, he called for road markings.

In support, Cllr Una McCarthy (FG) said too had been making the same request since she became a councillor. She also stressed the need for a raised pedestrian crossing in Ballinhassig but agreed that a Section 38 would be the next best thing to a full traffic calming scheme that could take some time to happen.

Ballinhassig village on the busy main R613 road where speed ramps have been requested - photo Leo McMahon.

In a written response, executive engineer, Andrew O’Brien said he would await to see what funding became available for Low Cost Safety Schemes before considering completing any Section 38 schemes at both locations.

However, at the MD meeting, the engineer said he had since been in contact with the council’s Roads Design Office and it might be possible for the area office to seek works such as widening the footpath and ramps to make a submission funding under a Section 38 scheme.

Gleann Orga

There was support at the MD meeting for a motion from Cllr Eoghan Fahy (SF) requesting the council to engage with the developer for completion of the installation of a right-hand turning lane at the entrance to Gleann Orga estate, Ballinhassig as one exits the R613 to enter the estate coming from the direction of the N71. Failing that, he said, the council should install the lane and recoup the costs. His motion also sought a timeline for road markings within the estate as per the planning conditions.

Cllr Fahy said he recently met residents about this. Seconding, Cllr Dalton-O’Sullivan said it was a lovely estate but the present situation was dangerous and markings would be very helpful.  Cllr Audrey Buckley (FF) concurred.

The engineer said he would liaise with the council’s planning department.

In her report, MD officer Denise Kidney said good progress was being made on the Village Enhancement Scheme in conjunction Tidy Towns at Waterfall, especially planting below the railway bridge and clearing of banks along the main road. Cllr Dalton-O’Sullivan thanked all involved.