More garda enforcement - not speed signs - needed to slow Kildare drivers
by Paul O'Meara · Leinster LeaderGreater enforcement by gardaí of the speed limit rather than new speed control signs are needed in Naas.
Kildare County Council engineer Donal Hodgins told a Naas Municipal District meeting that KCC will talk to the gardaí about tackling speeding.
He was responding to a call for KCC to put up speed control signs on Sallins Road - Naas’ busiest route.
It came from Labour Party councillor Anne Breen, who said the road is not safe for children and she said safety would be prioritised over cost.
Mr Hodgins conceded that the road carries much traffic and speeds are very high but speed control signs sometimes have the opposite effect, especially where the school is not visible.
He pointed out that new speed limits are to be introduced nationwide.
He said the existing speed limit signage on the Sallins Road is clearly displayed, adding the limit is 60 kph at the northern (Monread Road) end and reduces to 50kph closer to the town. He described it as a regional route that is located within the built-up area of Naas town.
Interactive speed control signs are used at specific locations and situations, he said, adding that the link between more signs and “a potential improvement in road safety on all regional roads into Naas has not been demonstrated.”
He added placing additional signs along the route would “negate any improvements for vulnerable road users by reducing the width of existing footpaths for walkers, possibly forcing them to step on to the carriageway.”
Cllr Bill Clear said that the speeds on the road are “incredible” and he pointed out there are three schools as well as the GAA club in the area. He also pointed out that there is a footpath on only one side for a section of the road.