Calls grow to improve safety at ‘most dangerous' junction in Meath
Kells' councillor and outgoing Chairperson, Sarah Reilly called on Meath County Council to explore and prioritise alternative options to improve safety at the 'dangerous' Balrath junction which has been the scene of a number of fatal accidents.
Over the last couple of years, there have been at least two fatalities and several other serious accidents at or near the cross and residents say they have been calling for safety works for years.
On May 25, 2019, a 26-year-old motorcyclist tragically lost his life after a collision with a tractor at Balrath Cross. His death rocked the community, highlighting safety concerns at the junction.
On April 8, 2022, a woman in her 70s died in a crash involving a car and a van at the same junction.
According to Cllr Reilly, efforts to progress a low-cost safety scheme at Balrath have not been successful due to the inability to secure a small piece of privately owned land.
Speaking to the Irish Independent, she said: 'Meath County Council have been trying to progress a low cost safety scheme for Balrath for the last few years. Unfortunately they have been unable to do so due to an inability to acquire necessary land.'
'I am now calling on the Council to explore alternative options to implement safety measures. There have been a large number of dangerous accidents at this junction and indeed fatalities.'
'In the interest of safety for local residents and motorists, this junction must now be prioritised. Alternative safety measures must be identified and actioned,' she added.
At the meeting, her motion was backed by Councillor Mike Bray and Michael Gallagher. Cllr Galllagher described Balrath junction as 'one of the most dangerous junctions in the country.'
In response, Meath County Council confirms that they are considering 'various options in order to progress the N52 Balrath Cross Road Safety Improvement Scheme.'
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