The speed limit on the old N6 Ballinasloe road is due to be increased to 100kph, subject to approval from Gardaí.
It will increase from the current default speed limit of 80kph, which was imposed when the road was downgraded from a national road (N6 ) to a regional road (R446 ), following the opening of the M6 motorway from Athlone to Ballinasloe.
The increase in speed limit will apply from Cornafulla National School to Ballinasloe.
Welcoming the change to the speed limit, Cllr John Keogh said that a number of local business owners and residents had contacted him and other councillors to explain their annoyance at the reduction in the speed limit.
“Residents and business owners alike were concerned with the reduction in the speed limit. Business owners have very legitimate concerns that the lower speed limit would deter motorists from using the road which would have a knock-on effect for their businesses, which are already dealing with the difficulties the economic recession has brought,” said Cllr Keogh.
The six South Roscommon councillors met with business owners to receive their input on how best to deal with the issue. Cllr Keogh explained that elected members could increase a speed limit by passing a bylaw, but that it would require Garda approval.
“If the agreed proposal is acceptable to An Garda Siochána then we can proceed to change the limit, and as per agreement we will review it in 12 months time.”
The reason why the road will not be increased to 100kph from Summerhill to Cornafulla National School is due to the proposed construction of a cycle lane on that stretch of road, which will significantly narrow the carriageway for vehicles.
Cllr John Naughten also welcomed the increase in speed limit, and extended his gratitude to local business owners for their agreement to the proposed changes to the speed limits.
