THE Minister of Transport, Paschal Donohoe, is to order a full review of speed limits in residential areas and housing estates.
The minister is to issue a circular to all local authorities requiring an examination of speed limits in a bid to improve road safety for cyclists and pedestrians, and in particular, children.
According to Cllr Neale Richmond (FG), the circular details the results of a recent survey carried out by the department that set out to determine the use of traffic calming measures, such as speed ramps, and reduced speed limits of 30km/h, in residential areas. It also reiterates existing policy in the area and requires local councils to undertake a review of the current situation to determine whether or not appropriate speed limits are in place.
“Minister Donohoe sees the increased use of the 30km/h speed limit in residential areas as a measure that will help mitigate against the dangers posed to cyclists and pedestrians, and especially children at play,
? Cllr Richmond said.
“In attempting to deal with excessive speeding in residential areas, a process is being proposed that will include consultation with local residents to determine if they believe speed limits are too high in their area.
“Bye-laws for the new 30 km/h limits and the use of a combination 30 km/h speed limit sign in conjunction with a yellow warning sign showing
‘children at play’ at the entry to a housing estate will be considered.
“Also under consideration are other traffic calming measures including the use of ramps, and the new speed limits will be monitored to ensure that the measures put in place are effective.
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Cllr Richmond said he had been regularly contacted by residents, especially parents, who are concerned about the high level of speeding in many estates.
“Only last night, at the AGM of the Woodpark Residents’ Association, the issue was raised again,
? he added.
“I welcome this examination from the department but I hope that it will be followed with a comprehensive review of traffic calming measures throughout the area.
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