Laois ramp at a community centre for 'fierce speed'

A ramp is needed in Ballyfin to slow cars at the area’s community centre which is located near a playground, GAA club and church.

That was the shared view of public representatives who want Laois County Council to take steps to slow traffic.

The consensus was shared at a recent meeting in Portlaoise where Cllr Paddy Bracken, Fianna Fáil, tabled a motion calling for action. He sought traffic calming measures to control the speed at Ballyfin Community Centre. 

He explained that the road there is a 50km limit zone but this is not slowing drivers.

“It is a very busy area…drivers take off at a fierce speed. I was out there myself and I could believe the speed.

“It is necessary and it needs a ramp,” he said

Cllr Seamus McDonald added his backing for a ramp. He said the church is located in the vicinity making it a busy area.

Cllr James Kelly, Independent, said he had also been made aware of the dangers. He said a community playground and GAA grounds are located in the area.

While also in favour of a ramp, he was concerned about the width of the road.

“It needs a proper assessment from the council because there are residents living in fear along the road,” he said.

Paul McLoughlin, Senior Engineer, replied in writing.

“Laois County Council Road Design section will assess the current traffic speeds at this location and thereafter consider measures as necessary,” he said.

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The issue was raised at a recent meeting of the Borris-in-Ossory Mountmellick Municipal. District.