This article is from page 8 of the 2013-09-17 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 8 JPG
ENNIS Town Council says it will continue to liaise with management at Ennis National School after concerns arose last week over traffic flow in the area. The opening of the new building at Ashline has resulted in increased traffic flows in mornings and afternoons. One woman who contacted The Clare People said the traffic build up is a particular problem on the Kilrush Road side of the roundabout at Ashline. She said, “Unfortunately I start work at 8.45am and seem to hit the traffic of the school run along with people commuting to work. It adds extra to my journey, which I already travel from West Clare and I’m sure a lot of other people are affected too. There was a three-car pile up there this morning and I can’t imagine what it will be like when the weather gets wet and hopefully not the previous bad winters of ice/ frost as it will cause havoc.” In a statement, the council says it held a number of meetings with school management in advance of the new school year, and are satisfied that the “preparatory work on such a major project was of considerable assistance in ensuring a relatively smooth transition to the Kilrush Road site”. A spokesman added, “This was a major undertaking and through the co-operation and support of all relevant parties has worked well. It is clear that a school of this scale will have an effect on traffic flows particularly at the start and end of the school day.” The council has deployed two school wardens at the crossing point at O’Sullivan & Hansbury location. The council has also cleared the laneway at Ashline to facilitate good pedestrian access to the new school. Cycle lanes are in place on part of the route. The council is also working with the Green Schools officer to progress other initiatives.” The council says engagement with the school will continue.