Running to Standstill... Surveys carried out to model existing traffic flows

Various options for active travel, public transport and road traffic management throughout Navan are currently under consideration following a major traffic study.

At a meeting of Meath County Council last week, councillors heard that extensive traffic surveys were carried out in 2024 to model the existing traffic movements in Navan and a public consultation was carried out to give residents and commuters an opportunity to identify issues which should be considered.

Cllr Eddie Fennessy had noted that during the previous term of office, they had been advised several times by the executive that a ‘Traffic Impact Survey’ would be undertaken on the Metges Road and surrounding area in Johnstown. "This advice was given in response to motions requesting the installation of pedestrian safety infrastructure along Metges Road.

"Has that survey taken place and if so, what pedestrian safety measures were identified as requirements along Metges Road?"

He was told Meath County Council appointed Systra consulting engineers in 2024 to carry out an Area Based Transport Assessment (ABTA) for Navan. Extensive traffic surveys modelling and public consultation were carried out.

Following a review of this data various options are currently being considered for potential active travel, public transport and road traffic management interventions throughout Navan. It is expected that the final identified list of interventions will be included as part of a Local Area Plan for the town. Work on the ABTA is still ongoing and is currently expected to be completed later this year.

Cllr Fennessy welcomed the council’s response. "I look forward to examining the recommendations of Systra’s report. Indeed, I participated in their online public consultation process and I made a number of suggestions for pedestrian safety measures and public transport route improvements across the Navan and Johnstown areas," he said.

“Traffic on the Metges Road ranges from school time gridlock to late evening speeding. It isn’t a particularly friendly road for walkers. There’s a definite need for the installation of pedestrian safety infrastructure and public lighting along most of it. Systra’s report cannot but identify that need.”