Essential funding has been secured towards the necessary upgrade of the Derries Junction, Athlone Town Mayor, Cllr. Aengus O’Rourke, revealed this week.
“I have long stressed the urgent need for funds to be afforded to this infamous junction on the old Dublin Road, close to Athlone Institute of Technology.
“I met with the residents in this regard a little over a year ago. Following those meetings, the Council agreed to draw-up a design for the junction. Once I had the design and a plan I was determined to push for the money through the Council and the Department of Transport.
“I am now pleased to report that the money has been secured and set aside for the redevelopment of this dangerous junction. The funding required for this enhancement work is in the region of €70,000 and is now ring-fenced for this purpose.
“The Council are currently talking to private land owners at the junction to ensure that the required works can proceed smoothly.
“The residents of the Derries have for too long tolerated the junction which is simply not fit for purpose. It is very tight with extremely poor sight lines on both sides.
“The old Dublin road is the busiest road in Athlone, so getting on to the Dublin road from the Derries Road is an utter nightmare any day of the week.
“I would like to thank Barry Keogh, Director of Service for Athlone, Westmeath County Council, for his assistance with this matter,” Cllr. O’Rourke emphasised.
