'Too many accidents' - Mayo town centre in need of accessible footpaths

There is good news for Ballyhaunis town as Mayo County Council will collaborate with local community groups and stakeholders to carry out a walkability audit of the town on Monday July 21.

At the April’s Municipal District meeting in Claremorris, Cllr. Alma Gallagher (Fine Gael) repeated the urgent need for improved accessibility in Ballyhaunis, particularly highlighting the deteriorating footpaths on Clare Street.

Such issues have made it increasingly challenging for staff and service users of Western Care and our older population to navigate to essential shops and services without having to venture onto the N60, posing a significant safety risk.

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Cllr. Gallaghers has representation on Mayo’s Age Friendly Alliance and her statement comes in the wake of the Irish Wheelchair Association's advocacy campaign, "Access is No Joke," which aims to raise awareness about the everyday challenges faced by individuals with mobility difficulties.

Cllr. Alma Gallagher’s passionate advocacy for improved accessibility in Ballyhaunis reflects a growing recognition of the need for systemic change.

She has a personal interest in disability issues as her own father was diagnosed with a neurological condition at the age of 23 years and was a wheelchair user.

‘We have had too many accidents at these crossings and the time has come that serious action needs to be taken’. Gallagher voiced her frustration at Monday’s meeting, saying, “I am tired of hearing that this is solely the responsibility of Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII).”

Her appeals for collaboration aim to ensure that all strategic partners, including local councils and transport authorities, come together to effect change.

“It's time to stop passing the buck and take action that prioritizes our older population and individuals with disabilities,” she asserted.

Cllr. Gallagher thanked all members of Mayo Age Friendly Alliance as well as Tom Gilligan, Director of Services for Mayo County Council and The Active Travel Unit of Mayo County Council.

The walkability audit will be open to people of all abilities and disabilities. 

"We will be meeting at Clare Court Communal Building at 10am on Monday, July 21, morning next where we will break out into groups under the guidance of Mayo County Council to carry out an audit of the town," Gallagher says.

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