Kells MD meeting in Athboy

Delighted to welcome the Kells MD meeting to The Athboy Convent Community centre. The development of the centre over the years is just staggering. The ability to hold the meeting in the Digital Hub demonstrates the standard of equipment there. If you’re looking for a location to do business remotely then there is no better place in the county.

On the agenda was an update on road safety measures proposed for the N51. As Chairman of the meath Joint Policing Committee subcommittee on Road Safety I have worked very closely with the engineers and residents to ensure that we continue to improve the approach roads in the area.

One specific piece of work that is scheduled early next year is at Causestown. As you know there have been many very serious incidents at a particular location on this road. The location is being surveyed at present with a plan of works to be proposed to Transort infrastructure Ireland (TII) who “own” the road in the new year.

Also discussed was the safety situation at Rathmore National School. As you know a lot of work has been done to progress a safety solution. This work will continue until a satisfactory result has been achieved. There are many factors at play that have resulted in limited progress to date.

The approach roads from Kells and Delvin were also discussed. As you know there has been increased enforcement by the Gaurds as well as the Speed Van operating within the Town. It’s important to remember that driver behaviour plays a huge part too

Also discussed was the Athboy Public Realm Plan. This plan is in two phases. The Bus Stop, which has passed all planning stages and is awaiting funding. (Approx €1million) Phase 2 is the Main Street plan. This plan will go to public consultation next year. It’s a significant and fantastic opportunity to get the town ready for the future as well as making huge improvements to it for the present.

Also while not discussed at the meeting. I requested an aerial traffic survey of the town to identify the causes for the traffic congestion in the evenings. This drone survey identified many causes. The bus obviously was a major one. Also the pedestrian crossing in the centre of the town. ( but not as much as you’d think ). Traffic volume at these times plays a huge part and general town activities, such as parking, turning right at Connaught street as well as generally movement.

The report from the survey will also form part of future plans to address the congestion. #athboy #localgovernment