’Budding Lewis Hamiltons’ a cause for concern on R506

FINE Gael councillor Peter Doyle has called for average speed cameras to be trialled on the Limerick to Murroe/Cappamore Road.

Speaking at a recent monthly meeting of the Metropolitan District, Cllr Doyle proposed cameras on the R506, before and after the Annacotty Business Park, in order to slow traffic approaching the railway lines and the residential areas of Clyduff, Garraun, and Lisnagry.

According to the City East representative, residents have requested action be taken due to speeding on the Murroe/Cappamore Road, particularly cars travelling from Barringtons Bridge towards Limerick.

“The speed limit from Barringtons Bridge, for approximately two miles, is 80km/h and then reduces to 60kmp/h as you approach the Ballyvara junction. This is a very straight stretch of road and many drivers exceed the 80kmp/h limit and do not realise they have entered the 60kmp/h area and approach the railway crossing at the Annacotty Business Park at crazy speeds,” Cllr Doyle told the Council executive.

“Some think they are budding Lewis Hamilton Formula One drivers, and there is a concern there will be a bad accident as speeding cars, approaching from Murroe side, cannot stop in time if the railway gates are across the road to let the trains pass into Limerick or to Castleconnell,” he added

The Fine Gael man explained to Council members that there is a slight bend on the road approaching the level crossing which adds to the danger.

“Drivers do not realise the railway gates are closed until they are within 60 metres of the crossing. Speeding traffic is also a danger to local residents living along this road. The only good solution is permanent speed cameras and fiberoptic broadband is available in the business park if required.

“I am of the view that speeding fines generated will pay for the cost of installation and in time we should install more speeding cameras on the roads around Limerick City East like on Mountshannon Road and near Donoghmore,” he said.

In response, the Council said that Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) and An Garda Síochána have primary responsibility for the operation and enforcement of speed enforcement systems, including average speed cameras, on the national road network.

At present, Cllr Doyle was informed, the use of such systems on regional roads, including the R506, is not widely established and would require consideration of the appropriate legislative framework, operational responsibilities, and associated costs.

The Council acknowledged the concern regarding traffic speeds on the R506, particularly in proximity to Annacotty Business Park and the residential areas of Clyduff, Garraun, and Lisnagry.

“The Council will raise the potential for a pilot of average speed cameras on regional routes with the Department of Transport at the next available opportunity. In the interim, the Council will continue to liaise with An Garda Síochána in relation to speed enforcement on this route and will review any feasible traffic calming or safety measures aimed at improving road safety in the area,” the meeting was told.