The Galway County Council has agreed to meet with residents and stakeholders to alleviate concerns in relation to phase two of the realignment of the N67 Ballinderreen to Kinvara which is to cost in the region of €8 million.
A motion put forward by Cllr Joe Byrne, and seconded by Cllr Gerry Finnerty, was agreed at a Galway County Council meeting this week after it was highlighted that although the works were badly needed on this busy stretch of road, the concerns of locals must be taken into account before the realignment designs were finalised by the National Roads Authority.
The Part 8 planning process for the realignment of the N67 Ballinderreen to Kinvara phase two project was brought before councillors for approval. The road improvement scheme will run approximately 3kms and will consist of a type three single carriageway measuring 6m with two 0.5m hard shoulders and verges. A cycle path of 2.5m wide is also included on one side.
Cllr Byrne said the people of Kinvara and Ballinderreen had been waiting for this project for 30 years, whle there were sections of the road where buses could not pass.
“I would like to see a more detailed plan,” he said, also outlining concerns about possible damage to St Coleman’s Well, problems with road signage, and the speed limit. He recommended that a meeting take place with residents and other stakeholders before plans were finalised.
In response acting director of services for roads, transportatinon, marine, and general services, Liam Gavin, strongly recommended the passing of the Part 8, adding that the €8 million would be provided by the NRA. Mr Gavin said the council had already met with residents groups, but hadno problem holding another meeting with stakeholders. He said St Coleman’s Well “won’t be touched” and that the speed limit had to be approved by the NRA, with plans to narrow the roadway to ensure a speed reduction on entering Kinvara.
Once the Part 8 is approved it will go to the NRA for finalisation with construction expected to begin next year.
