Despite worries about safety at a busy five-exit crossroads, it is unlikely that a roundabout will be sanctioned for the location, it has been confirmed.
Cllr Maura Healy-Rae raised ongoing concerns about the dangers that exist at Shinnagh Cross in Rathmore where five roadways meet on the N72.
She said there is heavy traffic travelling to and from Cork, Mallow, Millstreet, Killarney as well as vehicles using local access roads.
Cllr Healy-Rae asked officials for an update on the position regarding the provision of a roundabout but she was told that it was unlikely to happen.
“Having regard to geometric constraints, collision history and current design guidance on urban roads and streets, it is unlikely that a roundabout will be introduced at this location,” Kerry County Council said.
She was told that Transport Infrastructure Ireland’s safety division regularly monitors the N72 and the location at Shinnagh Cross has not been identified as requiring a new form of junction.
Cllr Healy-Rae said that it was unusual because another junction with five entry points, at the Cleeny Roundabout in Killarney, already has a roundabout and it makes sense.
Cllr Niall Kelleher said that while a roundabout would be the preferred option for the Rathmore junction, some works have already taken place and it has made the road safer.
“What is needed is to improve sight-lines coming from Lower Shinnagh,” he said.
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