A proposed solution to the standoff over the Roscam Active Travel Scheme has still not been signed off on by the National Transport Authority (NTA).

A row has erupted over the junction leading into and out of four estates at Spar in Roscam which previously had what has been described as an “unofficial” left turning lane for cars heading in the direction of the Coast Road.

However, the Active Travel Scheme has narrowed the carriageway to make way for a cycle lane – a move that has drawn the ire of local residents, over 700 of whom have signed a petition to have the road restored to how it was before works began.

Concern has been raised by advocates of the scheme that the Council could be left liable for costs to widen the route leading into Boireann Bheag, Cúirt Bhoirne, Ros Caoin and a new housing development.

Local Councillor Alan Curran (Soc Dem) said councillors had been led to believe at a meeting in late July that the plans to widen the road – which he opposes – had been agreed by NTA, the funding authority for Active Travel.

However, Cllr Alan Cheevers (FF) said it was imperative that works to widen the road got underway immediately and concluded before the schools returned early next month.

He said a lane facilitating cars turning left at the shop must be restored as the almost 800 residents living in the four estates along the route faced being left “prisoners in their own homes” as a result of the traffic chaos he believed its removal would cause.
This is a shortened preview version of this story. To read the rest of the article, see the August 11 edition of the Galway City Tribune. You can support our journalism and buy a digital edition HERE.