New signings and away teams are oblivious to the dangerous junctions on approach to the grounds of Fern Celtic.
Founded in 2001, Fern Celtic draws players from its catchment area of Ballyea, Clarecastle, Lissycasey and Ballynacally with some other personnel coming from further afield to line out with the soccer club.
Cllr Gabriel Keating asked Clare County Council what measures could be taken to improve road safety at the junction between the R473and the L-82503 at Tiermaclane. “This junction is used by children and adults attending the Fern Celtic soccer grounds and has very limited sight visibility”.
Responding to his motion to the West Clare Municipal District’s September meeting, senior executive engineer in the Council’s road design office, Ann Cronin said the location could be considered as a low cost safety scheme next year depending on the cost involved. “Works to improve sightlines would involve full or part acquisition of the structure at the corner and acquisition of land. The extent of property required would be depend on the result of a topographical survey”.
Reading a letter from club secretary, Leonard Meaney, Cllr Keating outlined, “Large numbers use the junction many of whom are unfamiliar with the area and the dangerous roads”. His motion was seconded by his Fine Gael colleague, Cllr Joe Garrihy.
Acting senior executive engineer in the West Clare MD, John O’Malley stated. “This is a matter that has been ongoing for a number of years. We have spoken to Fern Celtic and the secretary of the soccer club. Because of the success of the soccer club, more people are coming from outside playing with them that are unfamiliar with the danger of the road. There is no doubt that it needs improvement”.
