Urgent Plans Announced to Alleviate HGV Traffic in Kilkenny

UPDATE: New plans have just been announced to tackle the escalating traffic congestion caused by Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) in Kilkenny. Officials from the Kilkenny County Council revealed intentions to construct two new routes aimed at redirecting heavy traffic away from congested areas, particularly the Circular Road near the Sceilp Inn.

Senior Roads Engineer Stan Cullen outlined the urgent need for these developments, stressing that the existing routes are overwhelmed by HGV traffic. The proposed new routes will facilitate better management of heavy vehicles and improve overall traffic flow in the city, addressing long-standing frustrations faced by local communities.

Plans include an alternative route from the western side of the city, specifically through St Francis’s Bridge. Mr. Cullen assured residents that more details will be available in the coming months as part of the Kilkenny City and Environs Heavy Commercial Vehicles Management Plan presented to city representatives.

The issue of HGV traffic has reached a critical point, prompting the council to engage with the public for feedback under Section 38 of the Roads Act. This engagement has already led to significant findings, including proposed restrictions on HGVs along the Dublin Road and Granges Road, set to be implemented shortly.

Last October, the council promised new signage on the Kennyswell Road and made previous routes one-way to alleviate congestion. The ongoing plan has seen various updates, including the successful construction of the St Francis Bridge in 2018, which significantly reduced traffic burdens on nearby Green’s Bridge.

The latest developments were endorsed by local councillors Cllr Sean Ó hArgain (Labour) and Cllr Andrew McGuinness (Fianna Fáil), emphasizing the council’s commitment to addressing public concerns and improving local infrastructure.

As the council moves forward with these plans, the community is encouraged to remain engaged and informed. Watch for more updates on this urgent issue as Kilkenny works to enhance traffic management and improve the quality of life for its residents.