Fears that Ballinamore bus shelters could impact on businesses

Possible issues in relation to the proposed bus shelters in Ballinamore were highlighted at this week's meeting of the town's Municipal District.

Cllr Ita Reynolds-Flynn (FG) submitted a motion in which she expressed concern that the location of the bus shelters could impact negatively on both car parking and commercial activity.

In her motion, she stated, “I ask that the road design section engage with a sub-committee of the town team in Ballinamore on the new bus shelters proposed for Main St.

“While everyone welcomes the provision of bus shelters, it is vital that such developments do not impact negatively on car parking availability and commercial activity around the town centre,” the motion continued.

Speaking on her motion, the councillor stated that, “perhaps siting a bus shelter where the hospital is might be better than the main street.”

“At present, two buses meeting on the Main St. causes consternation,” she added.

The motion sparked a discussion on traffic in the South Leitrim town. “There was an informal meeting held in the town, where there were concerns raised about the proposed bus shelters. A local business person raised concerns,” according to District Cathaoirleach Gary Prior (FF).

“There were big concerns raised about buses stopping in the town. With 60 seconds of buses stopping, there is traffic backed up. There were also concerns raised about cars passing buses in the town,” he added.

The Cathaoirleach also raised concerns that if the buses don't stop in the town, it could affect local businesses.

“A number of businesses want the buses to stop on the street. If the bus stops were relocated to link roads, people might not shop in the town,” he stated.

“Cllr Reynolds-Flynn pointed out the option of relocating a bus stop to the nursing home. This would not cause any disruption,” Cllr Prior added.

Cllr Brendan Barry (SF) told the meeting that, “it is important that this is done right. Perhaps buses stopping could be staggered. In Drumshanbo, there was an attempt to have buses stop in the centre of the town. However, due to the narrowness of the streets, the buses now stop at the mart in the town.”

He conceded that, “it would be better to have buses stopping in the centre of towns, for the sake of shops.”

Council Director of Services David Minton told the meeting that, “we will engage with councillors on amendments.”

A written reply from the Roads Department of the council stated, “The formal public consultation process has already been undertaken. Submissions and observations were received. All observations received will now be carefully considered as part of the assessment process.

“Following this review, a determination will be made as to wheter the proposal will

• Proceed as presented

• Proceed with modifications

• Not proceed.

“The final determination is an executive function and will be recorded by way of a Chief Executive's Order. Elected members will be formally informed once a decision has been made,” the reply concluded.