New road safety plan put forward for Laois village with speeding problems

A plan to tackle road safety concerns in a Laois village plagued by speeding issues is being put forward to Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII).

Independent Republican TD Brian Stanley has provided an update on the progress to get road safety measures in place in Arles village after he recently handed in a petition signed by householders in the village demanding improvements to road safety on the section of the N80. Deputy Stanley said Laois County Council has now submitted a comprehensive proposal to the TII. 

"Laois County Council have now put forward detailed proposals to TII for their consideration and which if implemented would greatly enhance road safety for local residents, in particular children attending the local school," said Deputy Stanley. 

"The Council’s “Options Report” which they have forwarded to TII includes, effective traffic calming measures constructed at each end of the Village, the narrowing of the carriageway in certain places, widening footpaths, provision of a footpath to the GAA grounds and a pedestrian crossing installed. TII in their response to me state that they will “consider the proposals having regard to the level of funding available.”

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Deputy Stanley said as the village is located on a busy National Route (N80), both the volume and speed of traffic going through Arles presents "huge danger for both pedestrians and motorists locally." 

"Children who have to cross the road from Radharc Alainn housing estate are facing a particularly hazardous situation," he added. 

 "I believe that given the potential dangers posed, this project needs funding urgently and I will be raising the requirement for adequate funding to be provided with the Transport Minister Darragh O’ Brien.”