Additional traffic measures needed at popular Laois pub
The junction at the Deadman's Inn, Ballyfin
THE R423 regional road that runs between Portlaoise and Offaly has been the site of numerous speeding incidents in the proximity of the Deadman’s public house.
Additional traffic measures are necessary, the recent meeting of the Borris-in-Ossory municipal district heard because of a dangerous swerve in the road near the public house – a bend which, it is feared, will end up causing an accident if measures aren't taken to alleviate the tendency of drivers going faster than the existing speed limit.
The warning was delivered by Cllr James Kelly, who said: "I know this area very well and it’s a very serious bend and there have been a number of accidents there and I've always accepted that there is a fair percentage of that is drivers’ behaviour and I fully understand that and agree with that, but to me this bend, there is a problem with the surface and I'd hope to have a survey under the existing signage."
The councillor hoped that the survey would underscore the need for an upgrade in existing signage to make it more obvious to drivers the speed limit in the area and the potential danger on the bend.
Independent Cllr Ollie Clooney echoed his concerns and said: "I know it well. I got a big fright when I was young. There was snow on the road and that bend seems to go on forever and I think a racing driver would be proud of that bend because it can catch you out, so I'd like to support Cllr Kelly."
The area office agreed to survey the existing signage and road markings on the R423 at the location to determine if additional measures are necessary, though they also reminded councillors that the breaching of speed limits was ultimately a matter for the gardaí and that "all works are subject to available budgets and resources."
