'Too many close calls' on dangerous Laois bridge, says councillor

Fine Gael County Councillor John King has requested that Laois County Council urgently carry out safety measures at Castlefleming Bridge, Errill. 

Cllr King tabled a motion that new signage and markings be installed on the road to indicate who has the proper right of way, in order to prevent accidents occurring at this junction.

This motion was seconded by Independent Cllr James Kelly.

"Laois County Council Municipal District staff will meet with Councillor King on site to discuss road safety measures at Castlefleming Bridge, Errill," responded Mr. James Dowling, Senior Executive Engineer in Laois County Council's Road Division.

Pictured: Castlefleming Bridge, Errill

"This is from my home area," Cllr King said.

"The fire brigade have been out here on a few instances. Unfortunately when you drive up on the Roscrea side, or the Errill side, cars are coming too high and they don’t see the oncoming traffic. This is why I want road markings into the bridge on both sides.

"We have had two close incidents but I don’t want a fatal one," Cllr King said. 

"Bridges can have more danger of collisions than junctions with flat roads.  I look forward to meeting on site."

Cllr Kelly supported Cllr King's motion, agreeing that the area is indeed dangerous for motorists.

"I fully support Cllr King’s motion," said Cllr Kelly.

"I was out there about six months ago, it's the same with a number of bridges, but everyone should feel confident when they're on that junction that they will be safe on the road, and not feel that they are taking their lives into their hands," Cllr Kelly agreed.

This conversation took place at the September sitting of the Borris-in-Ossory / Mountmellick Municipal District.