ALTERATIONS TO CONTROVERSIAL cycling infrastructure in Ennis has been sought.
Access to houses by St Flannan’s College and the Kilrush Rd has been impeded “by flowerbeds constructed” along with the cycling infrastructure, Cllr Johnny Flynn (FG) highlighted as he appealed for a review.
Residents in the locality were up in arms in August 2019 when the traffic calming measures and cycling lanes was initially rolled out.
Acting senior executive engineer, Paddy Tiernan confirmed that an inspection of the entrances and exits along the route has been completed. “The scheme in question was designed and installed in accordance with the Design Manual for Urban Roads and Streets (DMURS). Narrow radii junctions were installed in order to reduce vehicular speeds and in turn improve the safety of cyclists and pedestrians”.
Flowerbeds were incorporated as part of the design, he outlined. “The species of plants within the beds tend to grow vigorously during the summer months which in turn can hinder sightlines”. The Ennis MD and gardening section will review the planting arrangement of the beds “and where appropriate plant more appropriate species,” Tiernan added.
Speaking at a meeting of the Ennis Municipal District, Cllr Flynn outlined that a species of flower beds were “hindering sight lines” and added, “one house owner has to cross over into the other carriageway to get out”.
“If flower beds are impacting on people’s ability to see the road then it’s serious,” warned Cllr Pat Daly (FF). Cllr Paul Murphy (FG) commented, “If it’s something similar that can be altered to make it easier for road users I’d support it. It is important to remember how much of a success it has been for cyclists”.
Support for the motion was voiced by Cllr Mary Howard (FG) who maintained the cycling infrastructure was a “great success”. She added, “It’s great to see so many people out on bikes”.
