Call for urgent safety measures at Whitehall school amid ‘death trap’ traffic concerns

A call for the installation of a table top ramp and enhanced traffic calming measures at Whitehall National School was made at the April meeting of the Municipal District of Mullingar Kinnegad, amid concerns over repeated road incidents in the area.

Cllr Alfie Devine said the stretch of road on the R394 outside the school has become increasingly dangerous, warning that recent crashes and high traffic speeds have created what he described as a “death trap” scenario. He said teachers were recently forced to direct traffic for over an hour during one incident while waiting for emergency services, highlighting what he said were serious safety risks for pupils, staff and motorists.

He added that the road layout, combined with turning traffic for the school and nearby facilities, contributes to hazardous conditions, particularly at peak times. Cllr Devine urged that traffic calming infrastructure be prioritised, or at minimum included in the next round of works funding.

The motion received cross-party support, with Cllr David Jones calling for design work to be progressed for the site, while also noting the presence of nearby community facilities which add to traffic volumes. Other members highlighted the need for clearer signage, reduced speed limits and improved driver awareness of the school zone.

Cllr Aoife Davitt suggested a stepped reduction in speed limits on approach to the school, while Cllr Emily Wallace backed calls for enhanced road markings, flashing warning signs and other measures commonly used near rural schools.

In response, the District Office said the area would be examined for possible traffic calming measures along the R394, with works to be considered as part of future maintenance and funding programmes. Engineers confirmed they would assess the location, but said delivery would be dependent on available resources and financing.