Independent Deputy for Galway West, Noel Grealish has confirmed that following a number of meetings with Galway County Council and the OPW; the N17 will remain open to traffic while flood alleviation works are being carried out at the Claregalway bridge.
Work is due to start on the widening of the bridge within seven weeks, and it is hoped the works which are part of a €6 million project to alleviate the flooding problem, will ensure that householders in the area will not be subjected to the disastrous flooding of last winter.
Deputy Grealish says: “I have facilitated a number of discussions between Galway County Council and the OPW regarding the proposed work and I am delighted that an agreement has been reached to keep the N17 open to traffic.” There had been reports that the road would have to be completely closed off during the corrective works on the bridge, and this would have undoubtedly led to severe traffic restrictions, further congestion and long delays.
Deputy Grealish says that retailers and business people are also anxious that the work is carried out as soon as possible. “Not alone would closing this road have resulted in traffic chaos on the minor roads around Claregalway, but a number of local businesses had also approached me with grave concerns about the effect it would have on their business. If this road had been closed for up to a month, it could have resulted in the closure of some businesses and this had to be avoided.”
Deputy Grealish says there has been dialogue with the OPW in relation to longer working hours so that the work is completed as quickly and as efficiently as possible.
He concludes: “Following my recent meetings, the OPW are also to consider working double shifts and weekends in order to complete the work as quickly as possible and minimise disruption within the village. I am delighted that the matter is being brought to a conclusion that will suit all parties.”
