Fancy buying your own little Meath island? Now you can

ANN CASEY
The traffic roundabouts at Kilcarn and Mullaghboy in Navan are the most valuable in the county - according to Meath County Council's pricelist for sponsoring roundabouts.
Any business wishing to sponsor either of those roundabouts, would have to fork out a hefty €15,000 over three years - and pay for the signage themselves.

The next two most expensive of the 39 roundabouts available for sponsorship are over at the coast - the roundabouts at both Colpe North and Colpe South cost €12,000 for three years sponsorship. excluding signage.

The roundabouts at Drumbaragh and Derver, Kells and at the M3 Parkway at Ratoath all cost €9,000 for three years.
The County Council is undertaking a scheme for the sponsorship of roundabouts around the county and businesses must undertake a three year deal. 

The Mullaghboy roundabout in Navan is always busy

The cost of advertising on the individual roundabouts is based on traffic flow - the higher the flow, the higher the cost of sponsorship.
Some local businesses obviously thing it is good value - as at least ten businesses had enquired about sponsorship, before the scheme was officially launched and a further five have also expressed interest.

Kilcarn roundabout in Navan
"The council is seeking to partner with businesses, organisations or individuals who wish to raise their local profile by enhancing the county’s built environment, while at the same time benefiting from advertisement opportunities being offered on selected
roundabouts located on key approaches and within County Meath," said a spokesperson.
"Proceeds from the scheme will be used to visually enhance the roundabouts through appropriate landscaping and maintenance."

Drumree Road roundabout in Dunshaughlin
Businesses can sponsor more than one roundabout and a number of local businesses can get together to sponsor a roundabout jointly, with different signs on different arms of the roundabout. 
Not everyone can avail of the scheme however - sponsorship for tobacco products or alcoholic drinks are not allowed, nor are any that could be construed as showing or encouraging any type of prejudice (e.g. racial, sexual or religious), as well as sponsorship which is not considered to comply with the guidelines set down from time to time by the Advertising Standards Authority. 
Directional arrows on any signage is also prohibited.

The Kells road roundabout sees high volumes of traffic
All signs will be subject to the approval of Meath County Council. Each sign will show the name and logo of the sponsor, the logo of Meath County Council and may also include the sponsor’s website address. 
The council points out the benefits of roundabout sponsorship includes increased awareness of the sponsor company name and its presence in the local community. 
Coverage is for 365 days of the year, 24 hours per day, acting as a constant reminder to residents and visitors to the county.
If your interested you can always contact www.meathcoco.ie