Bad signage means local towns missing out, say cllrs

The National Roads Authority (NRA) came in for fierce criticism over its signposting policies in Meath, but particularly on the M3, when Meath County councillors discussed the issue at their June monthly meeting. Dunshaughlin area members called on the authority to erect road signs indicating 'alternative route' on the M3 prior to the last exit before the toll plaza. They said that businesses in towns off the motorway were losing out as a result of the absence of "proper" signs. There was also sharp criticism for the NRA over its failure to complete all works in relation to footpaths in accordance with conditions laid down by An Bord Pleanala on the granting of planning permission for the construction of the M3. Cllr Brian Fitzgerald said that the "alternative route" signs were on every motorway but Meath's. "I want to know was a deal done between this council and the NRA when the motorway was being constructed?" he asked. "We are losing out as a result of that. I'll give one example of where we are losing out. There is an 'alternative route' sign on the M4 outside Kinnegad. It gives every town and village on the way that is not on the motorway. That means that these towns and villages gain if people want to leave the motorway. We want fair treatment on this. I am giving my honest opinion that we are not being given fair treatment on the M3," added Cllr Fitzgerald. Cllr Nick Killian said he supported Cllr Fitzgerald on the issue. He said that, last Easter, when Fairyhouse Races were on, there had been "a complete mix-up of traffic" because there was no indication of the racecourse on the M3. He called for new signage indicating the presence of Dunshaughlin. He cited an example of businesses losing out when he told fellow councillors that a bed and breakfast owner had had to close down because "she had no presence at all in terms of signage". He added: "From a local business point of view, the NRA inhibits business in this area." Several councillors raised the issue of policy on road signage throughout the county. Cllr Jimmy Fegan said the local authorities should have a more flexible approach to road signage for local retailers. Cllr Catherine Yore said the question of signage was a big issue for businesses. She was asking for more flexibility. There was a need to be able to guide people as to where they could go when using the M3 motorway. Cllr Tracy McElhinney said signage was a big issue for sporting and recreational associations. She said organisers of the recent 42nd annual horse show in Ballivor had been charged €150 for putting up a sign outside Supermac's in Trim. This was an organisation trying to dispel the "gloom and doom" in the south of Meath, she said. Cllr John Farrelly said he was involved in kells Heritage Festival and this voluntary body had been charged €100 a time for four signs they needed to put up around the county. He said there should be just one charge of €100 involved. Meath County Council seemed to have a "zero tolerance" policy on signs, said Cllr Maria Murphy. There were community groups and voluntary groups organising events for charity and could not afford fees for signage.