Major upgrade to hazardous road in Offaly
A MAJOR upgrade to a hazardous road in Mucklagh improving access and safety has been officially opened.
Works on the Brocca Road funded under the Town and Village Renewal Scheme include wider lanes, better signage, and improved lighting which has created a safer environment for all road users.
“This development will undoubtedly reduce accidents and fatalities, ensuring the well-being and security of our community.” declared the Cathaoirleach of Tullamore Municipal District, Cllr Neil Feighery at the official opening ceremony on Wednesday afternoon last.
The Fine Gael councillor's persistence in ensuring the development was funded and sanctioned was lauded by Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys who performed the official opening.
“I have lost count the number of times Cllr Feighery rang me and sent me photographs of the dangerous junction here. All I can say is he broke my heart but his persistence paid off,” outlined the Minister.
The official opening, performed in bright sunshine, was attended by local public representatives including Cllr Danny Owens, officials from Offaly County Council, members of the local community and staff and pupils from St Colman's National School.
Cllr Feighery thanked Minister Humphreys and her Department for her assistance in ensuring the project came to fruition.
He said the work had been completed to a very high standard and paid tribute to the contractor and officials from Offaly County Council.
Cllr Feighery added that without the support of the wider community and local landowners the works could not have been completed.
John Cotter, Chairman of Mucklagh Community Development Association, thanked everyone in the community for their co-operation in ensuring the successful completion of the works,
Describing Mucklagh as a vibrant area Mr Cotter revealed that both the local GAA and soccer clubs have major development plans in the pipeline.
He added that the Team Mucklagh group brought all the associations and clubs in the area together to ensure the best outcomes for the area.
Mr Cotter also revealed that plans were also in the pipeline to develop remote working facilities at the local community centre.
Minister Humphreys said she was delighted to spend the day in Offaly where she was opening developments at Ballycommon, Croghan, Clara, Birr and Shannonbridge as well as the upgraded road at Brocca.
She said her department was committed to providing resources and assistance to projects across rural Ireland.
The Minister revealed that her department had provided a total of €29 million to projects in Offaly since 2020.
“This funding helps to make rural Ireland a more attractive place to live and work in,” stressed the Monaghan based Minister.
Prior to the unveiling of the commemorative plaque, the road works were blessed by Fr Michael Whittaker PP and Fr Frank Guinan.