Mixed reaction from businesses to proposals to introduce a one-way traffic system in Kells

There has been a mixed reaction from businesses in Kells to proposals to introduce a one-way traffic system, ten years after a previous one-way system proved highly controversial.

A draft public realm plan which is due to go on public display next month includes a much reduced one-way system in comparison to that planned ten years ago.

Local businesses were divided on their views on the proposals.

Frances Mullen of The Flower Shop said she was in favour of a one-way system but her only concern was that Cross Street was to remain two way as she feared it would become a rat run.

“A one-way system is very necessary. The last proposal ten years ago was very good but some people just wanted to look after their own little patch.

“I believe it would have worked if it had been given a bit longer. The trial was cut short.”

Geraldine Gaughran of the Hinterland Festival and local architect said her main concern is that the public realm plan should not just be about traffic but to make the town safer and more attractive.

“There is a lack of pedestrian crossings. I hope it won’t all be about getting traffic around the town and parking and that it won't be all flashing light and beacons, changing the texture of the road can help calm traffic.

“It is something we often find during the Hinterland Festival is that people are concerned about getting round safely. We need pleasant safe surroundings.

“It is also very important that the businesses and local people are consulted. They didn’t feel listened to the last time, but consultation is planned,” she said.

Olivia Duff of the Headfort Hotel aid she would welcome any traffic calming measures for Kells. “Kells being a heritage town and one with so much tourism potential, we would love to see the opportunity of pedestrianisation being embraced for the longer term, in particular with plans for a creative place making projects in conjunction with Meath Co Council and Failte Ireland.

However it must be practical, it must be sustainable and it must be commercially viable and not encroach on local businesses but it is hard to be optimistic in this regard when it was not a success in a previous trial.

Jess Olohan of The BookMarket said she did not believe a one-way system was necessary. “We need more parking spaces but we don't need a one-way system. Kells is a small town and we haven't a lot of roads. It is ridiculous, what they need to do is to start looking for sites where they can provide additional parking.”

The draft Public Realm Plan for Kells which is expected to go on public display in September includes a much reduced one-way system in comparison to that planned ten years ago. The current proposals would see two-way traffic in John Street and Cross Street with Kenlis Place, Market Street, New Market Street and Church Street one-way in a clockwise direction.

The trial in August 2016, which proposed a more extensive one-way system and the possible pedestrianisation of Cross Street, proved highly contentious and had to be cut short.

The Public Realm Plan is aimed at rejuvenating Kells town centre, improving pedestrian safety, traffic flow and alleviating some of the current blockages to development.

Meath County Council says the aim is to increase the footfall throughout the town and improve the viability of the urban core.

At a recent presentation councillors were told a one-way system within the core streets of the town centre would improve movement through the town and allow for a more pedestrian friendly and inclusive urban core.

There are proposals to introduce additional pedestrian crossings at appropriate locations to enhance pedestrian movement throughout the town and create a safer environment.

The creation of wider footpaths and narrower carriageways where feasible will prioritise pedestrian and cyclist mobility and create a more vibrant town centre with planting, street furniture and improved street lighting.