Another forgotten village in County Sligo
Yet again we see another example of how rural Ireland is being neglected and another village forgotten.
Recently Gerry Cunningham, a resident of Temple Manor Estate, brought to my attention a number of concerns that he shares with his fellow residents of Ballinacarrow.
Speeding
Of most concern is speeding through the village, with many children who attend St Lassara's National School having to cross the very busy N17 in order to get to school. This particularly affects children from Temple Manor and the neighbouring estates and a number of children, including Gerry's own daughter have had lucky escapes while crossing the road. The residents of Ballynacarrow need a number of provisions put in place to eradicate the excessive speed through the village. 50 Km signs are not far enough out of the village, they should be moved to where the 60Km signs are on the Tubbercurry side of the village. The existing traffic calming island in the village is proving to be of little use. The installation of two new traffic calming islands on either side of the village and co-located with the repositioned 50km signs would be far more effective solution. A safer and more visible pedestrian crossing needs to be put in place.
Bus Service:
In common with most parts of rural Sligo the village needs a better bus service. Although located on the busy N17 the the only option is the Derry to Galway service which is of little use to students attendingATU Sligo as it is either too early or too late and is also too expensive for most students. A solution would be the provision of a TFI local link service taking in Ballynacarrow and running between Sligo and Tubbercurry. This would benefit a great number of residents in the general area.
Temple Manor Estate:
Temple Manor Estate has picket fencing that separates it from a neighbouring farm. Storm Isha caused some considerable damage to the fence and this needs immediate attention as sheep are getting in and fouling the play area and footpaths. The council made a token effort to mend some parts of the fence but have never returned to finish the job. None of these issues require a great deal of money to resolve, in fact to address them all would relatively inexpensive and in the case of the road safety issues may well save lives. I am therefore calling on Sligo County Council to address these legitimate concerns of the residents of Ballinacarrow as a matter of extreme urgency.
Thanking you.
Best regards,
Donal O’Connor Sinn Féin Local Election Candidate Ballymote - Tubbercurry