Major road safety works underway at busy Moate junction

Major road safety works are underway this week at the Clara Road junction in Moate.

The works at what is known as The Turnpike commenced on Monday, August 26, and will continue until Friday, November 1.

A contractor on behalf of the Athlone/Moate Municipal District is carrying out the works on behalf of Westmeath County Council at the R-446/L-5307/L-1307 intersection.

The work is to include the installation of pedestrian crossings and ramps and the lowering of kerbs, as well as junction improvements.

Roads will remain open to traffic during construction works with traffic lights and minor diversions in place.

Cllr Tom Farrell welcomed the works, stating: “It is great to see it happening.”

The Fine Gael councillor had asked about progress on the plans at the April meeting of Westmeath County Council's Athlone/Moate Municipal District.

He said the works would help enhance the entrance to the town from the east, slow down traffic and make the junction much safer for all road users, including pedestrians.

He noted the area was well used by pedestrians accessing both the Clara and Ballycumber roads, as well as the Moate Nursing Home and Carmelite Church and grounds.

The council secured funding of €128,000 earlier this year under the Low Cost Safety Scheme for the junction redesign and improvement works.