To: Galway Co Council & local Councillors
Petition for Increased Safety Measures and Speed Limit Enforcement near Schools
We, the undersigned, are writing to express our deep concern regarding pedestrian and traffic safety on the roads approaching schools in Spiddal on route R336.
Despite our proactive efforts, including engaging with local representatives and Galway County Council (GCC), we have yet to see sufficient action taken to ensure the safety of students and the local community. Recent incidents have highlighted the urgent need for enhanced safety measures in this area, and we are seeking your support in addressing these issues. This summer alone, there have been four traffic incidents within Spiddal village, the most recent occurred during school drop-off.
GCC has recently published the Draft Road Traffic (Special Speed Limits) County Galway, which includes proposals for special speed limits outside schools on regional roads in other parts of the county. We believe that Scoil Éinne also warrants a special speed limit designation.
Although GCC has repaired flashing amber advance warning signs, they are largely ineffective due to their placement outside drivers’ direct line of sight. As a result, we are requesting the following immediate measures:
- Strict enforcement of speed limits.
- Installation of additional advance warning signage and village gateway signs.
- Introduction of a north-south raised pedestrian crossing on the R336, supported by appropriately sized footways leading to the crossing.
- In line with the Department of Transport’s September 2023 Speed Limit Review (section 5.2), we believe that Scoil Éinne qualifies as a School Speed Zone and should benefit from appropriate speed limits and treatments designed to manage traffic speeds.
Why is this important?
We kindly ask for your support in this matter. Signing this petition would greatly strengthen our case for increased safety measures, speed limit enforcement, and special speed designations on the approaches to the school gate.
