Calls for greater road safety near Tubberclair and Tang schools

Something has to be done in the long-term to improve safety for those attending national schools in Tang and Tubberclair, both located on the busy N55 Athlone to Ballymahon road.

That was the call on the council from Athlone Mayor Cllr Tom Farrell at the latest municipal district meeting on Monday, as he urged the local authority to carry out a traffic survey at both sites.

In a written reply, the council pointed out that the transportation section and District Engineer were involved in the design of the traffic arrangements at both of the schools which are located within speed limit zones.

“The Road Safety Engineer will examine both locations and any recommendations to improve safety can be considered in 2016,” the written reply concluded.

While Cllr Farrell acknowledged the position of local authority staff on the issue, he maintained that “warning lights could work there” and should be looked as a possible solution in each case, pointing out that the front of Tubberclair school cannot be used by pupils and parents such is the danger posed by the fast moving traffic along the main road. Instead motorists and walkers are forced to use the back entrance which is blocked up every morning and evening.

Independent Cllr Kevin 'Boxer’ Moran said there was “definitely merit” in the motion brought forward by the Mayor as both schools are located on a very busy main thoroughfare. He suggested that warning lights be installed in both areas on a trial basis.