Is this Kerry's most dangerous road? Residents highlight serious safety issues on main tourist route

Irish Independent

2 days ago

A cyclist has already been knocked down and pedestrians are in danger every day as are local residents living on the road every time they step outside their doors on New Street.
New Street is in such a state that cars are forced to drive up on the footpath to try and avoid each other and the camber of the road is so bad that cars are almost tilting to one side.
Parking along the street is also adding to the issues on the road which is also one of the busiest routes in the county as it the main road around the Ring of Kerry.
'Everyone understands how dangerous it is and how bad the condition is. There has been a significant number of accidents over the years and the rate of deterioration is getting quicker,' said Bryan Sheehan speaking on behalf of a deputation of residents who attended the Kenmare Municipal District Meeting recently.
"A cyclist has been knocked down, a house has been damaged, parked cars are damaged every day,' he continued issuing a strong warning that that it is only a matter of time before some-one is seriously injured.
Residents feel that a lack of works demonstrates that safety is not a priority.
"It is a matter of finance ahead of public safety, safety needs to be first, this is not acceptable,' said Mr Sheehan.
"It is like playing Russian roulette,' said resident Mary Bernie O'Sullivan who highlighting the vulnerability of those using the road on a daily basis.
And the deputation called on Taoiseach Michéal Martin to come and see the road when in Kerry this week.
Cathaoirleach of Kenmare MD Cllr Norma Moriarty (FF) who brought the deputation said that she is not one to exaggerate but this situation is very serious.
ADVERTISEMENT
Learn more
She said residents are in danger as are motorists with cars forced to drive up on the footpath to get through the town of Cahersiveen which is not only illegal but a serious safety concern. She said such is the deplorable state of the New Street that tourists are getting a terrible impression of Kerry.
The local councillor has been campaigning on this issue and says some interim measures must be taken particularly around parking which would help alleviate part of the problem but the condition of the road and the camber remain a significant issue.
Local councillors supported the residents and said works must be carried out on this road with Cllr Johnny Healy-Rae hitting out at the cost of Fossa road works which were 'not needed or wanted' when Cahersiveen is pleading for such works.
Senior Engineer Padraig Teahan said the road is a priority for Kerry County Council and scheme has been identified but funding has not.
The project must be funded by Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) as it is national road and as of now funding has not been granted. He said it is a significant works are needed given the camber of the road, the height of the footpaths and road condition.
He warned that while minor works could be undertaken they will not address the main issues.