Crossing a ‘safety issue in Templemore,’ says councillors

Councillors have emphasised the importance of keeping the new Templemore pedestrian crossing in its new location.

The crossing was raised at last month’s Thurles-Templemore Municipal District Council meeting, where it was decided the policy regarding crossings would be examined.

At this week’s full sitting of Tipperary County Council, Cllr Eddie Moran raised the issue again.

He said since the district meeting he has received “fierce feedback from locals.”

“It is very important that we leave it there,” said Cllr Moran.

The crossing has been moved to allow for work in the area where it is usually located.

Cllr Michael Smith said he too has received calls from businesses in the town who feel strongly that the crossing should remain where it is.

He said they feel as though they are not being taken seriously.

Cllr Smith said the council have responsibility for the safety of pedestrians and that nobody wants the crossing moved back.

“There is a wish from us that the process be stalled,” said Cllr Smith.

Cllr Shane Lee supported his district colleagues saying the crossing where it is, makes “perfect sense.”

He said it is very important that changes to the town’s roads benefit the town’s people.

“This has been very well received by the people of Templemore,” said Cllr Lee.

New Roads Director Liam Brett told members that because it is a national road, keeping the crossing where it is would require funding and approval from Transport Infrastructure Ireland.

Cllr Moran emphasised that this is a safety issue in Templemore and that a decision is needed quickly.

“You can put in a second one if you want, but we need that one, said Cllr Moran.

Mr Brett said that he would raise it with TII.