Smooth start for one-way system in O'Connor Square but tweaking needed

The new one-way system in O’Connor Square, Tullamore, is off to a smooth start, with minimal issues reported. ''People have adapted to it easily,'' said Senior Executive Engineer, Joe Dooley.

Councillor Oliver Bryant echoed the praise and commended Mr Dooley for his efforts. He shared that a local businessman had reached out with glowing feedback, complimenting both Mr Dooley and the Offaly County Council staff for their ongoing communication and updates throughout the project.

However, the same businessman flagged a concern about delays when turning right from O’Connor Square onto Bridge Street. According to Councillor Bryant, the wait can stretch to 10 or even 15 minutes due to traffic congestion between two sets of traffic lights.

He suggested syncing the lights, noting that the lights at the Bridge Centre might be green while the ones at the Hayes Cross junction remain red,causing hold-ups.

In response, Mr Dooley said the issue would be looked into. ''The lights are synchronised. Sometimes they get out of sync, especially when new works are introduced. We will ask them to do a review and look at the best synchronisation for the town, and that's all we can do. Once they are synchronised, the loops will react to the traffic and hopefully that will improve the situation,'' he explained.

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New signage for the Tanyard and O’Connor Square is also on the way, aimed at helping motorists navigate the updated system more clearly.