Council to identify funding stream for Golden Island junction works

Town Mayor, Cllr Frankie Keena, has called for the installation of appropriate traffic management measures at the junction of the Golden Island/Carrickobrien roads in the interest of public safety.

Raising the issue at a meeting of Athlone-Moate Municipal District, the Town Mayor stated that he was aware that some works had been carried out at the location at which there has been significant traffic congestion for some time.

"We have an ongoing issue with traffic congestion at this particular junction, one which needs immediate addressing. I am aware that some works have been carried out at this location and if the need arises to progress these further, the local business community are open to engaging with the Municipal District to enable a smoother traffic flow," Cllr Keena said.

Concurring, Cllr Paul Hogan noted the importance of a well managed traffic system at the junction, the local community eager to see such works progress.

"This has to be one of the most frustrating traffic junctions in our town. No matter what direction you are travelling it can take a period of time before the flow of traffic allows you to proceed in the manner you wish," Cllr Hogan said.

In response, District Manager, Willie Ryan, said that a design for traffic management at the junction had been devised.

"A traffic lights solution at this location has been devised but at the moment the Municipal District is identifying a source of funding to ensure that the scheme is ultimately delivered," Mr Ryan said.