Senator Alison Comyn has asked Louth County Council to carry out an urgent traffic survey at School Lane in Collon, where children from the local national school and GAA club have been without a footpath or traffic calming measures for years.

The Fianna Fáil senator was contacted by the Parents’ Council of Collon NS and by the chairman of Mattock Rangers, both of whom have said the need for urgent improvements is vital for the children’s safety.

“It is beyond belief that this small road, which is used by thousands of children per month, does not have adequate safety measures for its young pedestrians,” says Senator Comyn. “I have spoken to many parents concerned for the children of Collon National School who are at risk daily due to the  lack of sufficient road markings and inadequate safety measures on The School Lane.

Senator Comyn was shown the dangers by Michelle Weldon, Chairperson of Collon National School,  Parents Council, who said they are calling for urgent improvements to ensure the safe passage of children to and from the school. 

“We are seeking the implementation of refreshed road markings and the Pencil Bollards with bright colours and iconic shape to instantly alert drivers that they are entering a school zone,” says Ms Weldon. “This is needed to prevent accidents and discourage illegal parking, thus safeguarding student pathways”.

Mark Lacey, chair of Mattock Rangers, explained the importance of a footpath and lighting to Senator Comyn.

“We are a very active club, yet there is no footpath on either side of the road down to Mattock Rangers Clubrooms,” explained Mark. “This is a very busy road, and children and young players are walking along the edge of the road with no protection from the school and club traffic.

“Also there is only one working light along the lane between the school and the pitches, and there is no proper pedestrian crossing from the existing footpath at the top of the lane, to the actual school entrance”.

Louth County Council has told Senator Comyn that the width of the lane poses a problem.

“They tell me the concern with this roadway is the narrow widths, which has previously made adding footpaths difficult.” she added. “I will be also contacting the Active Travel Section, who may be able to help, as they are currently rolling out a Safe Access to School programme.”