Cllr Caroline O’Reilly has secured support at the Ratoath Municipal District meeting for a motion calling on Meath County Council to review and strengthen traffic safety measures on the R154 through Batterstown. The motion was brought forward following ongoing concerns from residents and parents regarding safety along the route used by children attending Rathregan National School.
While a recently installed traffic ramp was welcomed, Cllr O’Reilly said further measures are needed to address the risks posed by heavy goods vehicles, school traffic and pedestrians sharing the same road. “The ramp that was installed is a positive step, but it is clear from speaking with residents and parents that it is not enough on its own. Children are walking and travelling this route every day, and we need to ensure that the road environment reflects that.”
Planning permission is already in place for the Batterstown Traffic Calming Scheme, but funding for the project has not yet been approved by the Department of Transport. Cllr O’Reilly said that waiting indefinitely for funding is not acceptable where safety concerns remain.
“We cannot simply wait while safety concerns persist. The Council has the ability to implement interim measures using its own resources, and that should happen while we continue to push for the full scheme.”
The motion calls on the Council to examine additional traffic calming measures including further ramps or speed tables, enhanced road markings and improved signage. Cllr O’Reilly said she will continue to work with Council officials and the local community to ensure progress. “Residents in Batterstown have been raising these concerns for a long time. My focus is on ensuring that practical safety improvements are delivered.”
