A speed of 83km per hour was recorded earlier today (Thursday) approaching Cloonakilla NS from the Tuam direction. Road safety improvements are planned at the school. Photo Paul Molloy.

New roundabout and pedestrian crossing planned at Cloonakilla NS

Adrian Cusack

Published: Thu 1 Sep 2022, 5:16 PM

Last updated: Thu 1 Sep 2022, 6:32 PM

Plans to address longstanding road safety concerns at a national school in Bealnamulla, Athlone, went on public display today (Thursday).

For many years, local councillors have been calling for additional safety measures on the busy R362 road outside Cloonakilla National School.

Roscommon County Council has now drawn up a road safety scheme at the school which would involve the addition of a pedestrian crossing on the R362 and a new roundabout at the junction where the L2025 (Taughmaconnell Road) meets the R362.

Speed limit signs advertising a new speed limit of 50km per hour around the school (a reduction of 10km on the current limit) are also due to be installed.

The council has commenced the process of obtaining planning approval for this work through the 'part 8' planning process used for local authority projects. As part of this process the plans went on display today, both online on the council's website and also at the council's offices in Monksland and Roscommon town.

A heavy goods vehicle passing on the busy R362 road outside Cloonakilla National School. Photo Paul Molloy.

Cllr John Naughten has welcomed the proposed works, saying they had been needed for some time.

"As chairperson of the Athlone Municipal District I would like to welcome publication of this plan. While there have been long delays in progressing this issue, this is a significant step forward," he stated.

"There are very significant safety issues at this location at Cloonakilla NS, and the works being proposed will improve the situation for both pedestrians and road users through the provision of a roundabout, pedestrian crossing and associated works, as well as a reduction in the speed limit.

"I would like to acknowledge the work of the staff of Roscommon County Council and the support of my council colleagues, in particular Cllr John Keogh," added Cllr Naughten.

Another South Roscommon councillor, Curraghboy's Cllr Tony Ward said the roundabout and pedestrian crossing were "very welcome" but he felt it shouldn't have taken so long to put these measures in place.

He said the road safety improvements should have been carried out in tandem with the construction of the new Cloonakilla NS building, which opened five years ago, in September 2017.

"I hope that they will be starting on the work straight away, because it's an urgent situation," said Cllr Ward.

Submissions on the proposed work can be made to the council in writing or via email before 4pm on October 13.