Calls for traffic calming ramps in Ballinea amid rising pedestrian and visitor activity

Calls have been made for the installation of traffic calming ramps in Ballinea following concerns about increasing traffic speeds and growing pedestrian activity linked to nearby walking routes and amenities.

At the April meeting of the Municipal District of Mullingar Kinnegad, Cllr Aoife Davitt said traffic volumes and driver behaviour in the village had become increasingly concerning, particularly as more people use the greenway and visit the local shop.

She said there are frequent safety risks for pedestrians crossing the road, including schoolchildren and passengers using the Local Link service, and argued that ramps are now needed to complement existing traffic lights and signage.

Cllr Andrew Duncan also supported the proposal, saying that while signage and existing safety measures are helpful, they are not sufficient to slow drivers who continue to travel at speed through the area.

He said traffic calming ramps would provide a more effective physical deterrent, particularly at either end of the village, and highlighted the difficulty of safely exiting the local shop due to fast-moving traffic.

Cllr Ken Glynn likewise backed the motion, noting that the issue has been raised repeatedly over a number of years. He suggested that a combination of ramps and increased garda enforcement could help improve safety, particularly given the popularity of the area with walkers and visitors from the greenway.

Members noted that the village has seen increased footfall in recent years, especially during fine weather, as visitors stop to use local amenities. Concerns were also raised about vehicles speeding through the village approach roads, particularly from the Dysart direction.

In response, the District Office said the installation of ramps in Ballinea could be considered as part of future works estimates.

Director of services Deirdre Reilly said that the work has not been included on the transportation programme for 2026, but if more funding becomes available towards the end of the year, as sometimes happens, the work can be considered.