Urgent action is needed to improve road safety at a Laois junction

Laois Council has been  asked to take action before someone is killed at new traffic lights in Stradbally. 

Fine Gael Cllr Vivienne Phelan asked in a motion “that this Council improve the road signage on the N80 approaching Stradbally to alert motorists of the new traffic lights and to allow safe stoppage time, particularly during busy periods at the cemetery and in poor weather conditions.”

In a written response, Senior Engineer, Roads Section, Paul McLoughlin said “The section of road is included in Laois County Councils funding request from TII for resurfacing in 2025, as part of the scheme road signage and lines on the approach to the cemetery will be reviewed and included in the scheme for upgrade and improvement.”

Cllr Phelan said it was an issue that was being brought to her attention primarily by people who drive Heavy Goods Vehicles such as trucks and tractors. 

“If there is already traffic stopped at the lights you hardly get any notice at all and it is around the bend so you only see it at the last minute,” said Cllr Phelan, who described the need for action as urgent. 

She said people coming down the hill in heavy vehicles are unable to stop in a short distance even in dry weather. 

Fianna Fáil Cllr Paschal McEvoy said he supported the motion. He suggested the council take action in the short term until a proper solution is put in place. 

Independent Cllr Ben Brennan recalled one man telling him he was driving a 30 tonne articulated lorry at the location.  

“Only that the road wasn’t wet he said there could have been fatalities. He could have slipped straight through or lost control,” explained Cllr Brennan. 

“He said it has to be done urgently because god forbid, ice builds on that road,” he added. 

He said action was urgently needed on the road. 

“It is ok until we have an accident. Then everything can be done then,” he said. 

He said nobody wants a fatality on the road. “To me it is a priority and urgent,” said Mr Brennan.