Gaffney welcomes progress on road safety and repair works

Queries relating to road and safety issues at a number of locations in north Westmeath were raised by Cllr Niall Gaffney at the December meeting of the Mullingar Kinnegad Municipal District, including bridge maintenance, resurfacing in Crowenstown, and traffic-calming works in Raharney.

Cllr Gaffney first asked that the council inspect the bridge on the L5524 and carry out any necessary structural repairs. The Transportation Section confirmed that the bridge will be examined and that any required works will be prioritised, subject to available funding. Cllr Gaffney welcomed the response, noting that “one of the big issues is not just the bridge itself, but the banks around it”, and said engineers would see the extent of the problem during inspection.

Cllr Gaffney also sought an update on resurfacing and repair works for Crowenstown Boreen, Crowenstown Little. Officials advised that the road will be considered for inclusion in the 2026 works estimates. He acknowledged the update and noted ongoing improvements in the area, saying, “I know a big job was done there last year - it’s just there are so many populated laneways in Crowenstown.”

The meeting also heard a positive update on traffic-calming measures in Raharney, as officials confirmedthat speed ramps will be installed along the R156 near the school and Village Close during December 2025. Cllr Gaffney welcomed the news, describing it as “very positive” for the local community, particularly for families and schoolgoers using the route daily.