Works to commence on new Moynalty pedestrian crossing

Work on a long campaigned for pedestrian crossing in Moynalty will begin next week.

The first phase of the work, which begins on 6th February, will involve the replacement of the existing footpaths from the entrance to the tennis courts to the bridge on the Kells Road as well as the replacement of the footpaths from McNally's pharmacy to O'Connell's surgery.

Cllr Paul McCabe said that following a long campaign by both himself and local residents the work is finally starting.

"For some time the existing footpaths have posed a significant danger to pedestrians as they are prone to frost and can become very unsafe in wintertime. They have become crumbled and very uneven since they were originally laid. New kerbing will also be installed.

"I'm particularly pleased that there will also be a pedestrian crossing installed near Geraghty's shop across to the entrance of the tennis courts. New advanced warning signage will be installed in the village and some new road markings will be laid, which will warn motorists of a pedestrian crossing and the speed limits ahead.

"It is expected that the works will take approximately six weeks to complete and there may be a need for traffic to be reduced to single lanes at some locations.

Cllr McCabe said that the second phase of the project will take place next year.

"This will include the replacement of the footpaths from Allen's lodge to Farrell's TV shop. There will also be an opportunity at that stage to look at a pedestrian crossing from the Post Office across to the village preschool."

He also expressed concern about speeding in the village.

"I am well aware that the speed of traffic continues to be a huge issue in the village and poses an immediate danger to pedestrians. The new pedestrian crossing at Geraghty's shop will I think have a calming effect on the traffic. However, more needs to be done.”