BBCH MD Minutes 25 09 03
Minutes of Meeting of Bailieborough-Cootehill Municipal District held in The Courthouse, Cootehill, on Wednesday 3rd September 2025 at 3pm.
Presiding:
- Councillor Val Smith, Cathaoirleach
Present:
- Councillor C Kelly
- Councillor N Smith
- Councillor S Conaty
- Councillor C Brady
- Councillor A Rogers
In Attendance:
- Paddy Connaughton, Director of Services
- Clinton Mulligan, A/Senior Executive Engineer
- John Donohoe – Senior Executive Officer
- Ann McQuillan – Minutes Administrator
- Roisin and Grainne – The Anglo Celt.
Cathaoirleach V Smith welcomed all to the meeting.
Confirmation of Minutes
- To confirm Minutes of Monthly Meeting held on on July 7th meeting.
Proposed by Councillor C Brady, seconded by Councillor N Smith and resolved “that minutes of meeting of Bailieborough-Cootehill Municipal District held hereby approved”
Matters Arising from Previous Minutes
N/A
2. Disclosure of Interests
There were no disclosures of Interest.
3. Business prescribed by Statute, Standing Orders or Resolutions of the Council
To approve the Community and Voluntary 2025/Festival & Events 2025 grants. Proposed Councillor C Kelly and seconded Councillor C Brady.
John Donohoe circulated a spreadsheet listing the organisations that secured funding under the Community & Voluntary 2025 scheme.
He explained that this is small capital funding for community and voluntary groups, with a budget of €10,000 per MD per year. Applications are advertised and assessed in-house. John outlined the successful organisations and noted that four applications were deemed ineligible; however, he will direct these groups towards alternative funding schemes.
Cllr C. Brady welcomed the allocations, stating that fundraising for small organisations is becoming increasingly difficult and this funding provides vital support for small organisations serving their communities.
John Donohoe then referred to the Festival Grant Scheme, with a budget of €7,000 for the district, and listed the organisations awarded funding. He also noted one ineligible applicant.
Cllr S. Conaty queried why only €7,500 of the €10,000 budget was allocated and asked what would happen with the balance. Cllr C. Kelly suggested rolling over the balance to 2026. Cllr N. Smith proposed that unallocated funds could alternatively be used for Christmas lights at year end. Cllr V. Smith supported rolling over the balance so that more organisations could benefit next year, and all councillors agreed.
4. Members' Items
1. Cllr Val Smith, Safety measures in Stradone Village: Cllr V. Smith raised the issue of road safety in Stradone Village. He noted that in recent years, 4–5 new businesses have started up in the village, now employing approximately 200 people. Between the two speed signs, there are several hundred people working in the area. Just outside the village, Galetech contracts employs a further few hundred staff. Within the village, Callaghan Electrical employs (80 staff), Rudden Solicitors (10 staff), Áine Chocolates (27 staff), Club Spot (32 staff), as well as a crèche, a community centre, GAA grounds, and the paving centre with 10 employees. There is also a car park on the Killymeehan Road which is a great facility, but concerns remain about people walking from the crèche across the road where there is no pedestrian crossing or lights. Cllr V Smith added that the speed signs have been down for over 12 months. He acknowledged meeting Mr C Mulligan and residents on-site previously regarding these issues, and suggested that upgraded speed bumps may be required, similar to those in Crosskeys which he described as a “good job.” He stressed the importance of safety measures, particularly with the gym, football pitch, and other community facilities in the village.
Mr C Mulligan outlined the current measures within the 50km/h speed limit zone in Stradone as follows; there are four sets of speed cushions over a 360m distance, and these meet current standards. There is a 50km/h sign on the approach from the N3 Lavey and two signs from the Cross Pub. Replacement signs have already been ordered, delivered and will be installed after this year’s roadworks programme has been completed, hopefully starting next month. He explained that, under Cavan County Council’s internal process, any request for additional traffic calming measures in residential areas must be supported by two-thirds of residents within 100m of the proposed location. This requirement was introduced because in the past, new ramps or cushions generated complaints (e.g. noise pollution).
Cllr C. Kelly asked if this requirement was new and approved by the Department.
Mr C Mulligan clarified it is a Cavan County Council process, generally applied in housing estates. He also stated that if two-thirds of the residents are in favour, the Roads Safety Section would carry out a survey/assessment and if traffic calming is justified, then funding would need to be identified, as no dedicated budget exists for these works outside of low-cost safety schemes or Active Travel schemes.
Cllr V Smith asked if works would be ready to proceed if funding became available.
Mr. C Mulligan confirmed that once the required number of residents supported the measures, and the Roads Section recommended them, and if funding became available, then works such as cushions, ramps, signage, or markings could proceed.
Cllr V Smith reiterated that employment in the village had grown from 10 people to over 200, with significantly more activity, and therefore Stradone should be treated as a priority. He also stated he was not previously aware of the two-thirds requirement.
Mr. C Mulligan explained this was to ensure residents most affected are included in the decision, especially given the high volume of HGVs through the village and the associated noise implications.
Cllr N. Smith suggested flashing amber lights could be considered as part of the measures, to warn motorists to slow down on both sides of the village.
Mr. C Mulligan advised he had already liaised with the Active Travel Scheme and confirmed that the NTA prioritises projects that link hubs such as factories and schools with town centres. While he acknowledged Stradone’s high employment, he noted that pedestrian footfall is relatively low as most workers drive and park on-site for the day.
Cllr V. Smith emphasised the importance of the crèche, football pitch, gym, and community centre which hosts multiple businesses, arguing this generates regular pedestrian movement.
Mr C Mulligan concluded that while NTA funding is limited, he is working with Active Travel, and a signalised crossing may be appropriate.
Cllr V Smith welcomed the response but stated he would raise the issue again at the next meeting to track progress.
2. Cllr Carmel Brady, Request for a Footpath – Maguire’s Filling Station to Cootehill Industrial Estate: Cllr C. Brady raised the ongoing issue of the lack of a continuous footpath on the Cavan Road in Cootehill. She explained that the footpath runs past the Fire Station and Griffith Park to the Mace Filling Station on the left but stops there despite still being within the town boundary. On the righthand side, the path extends in front of houses in Griffith Park but stops at the last house, leaving a gap of a few hundred metres before it resumes at Whelan’s old shoe factory and continues as far as the entrance to the industrial estate. The Cootehill Industrial Estate includes companies such as Mestek, PQE, Cootehill Precision Engineering, and Cavan Mac Rubber. Another estate across the road includes Abcon, Abcon Abrasives, and Polytec. In total, these companies employ approximately 350 people. This area also contains approximately 60 houses, with children waiting for school buses, as well as the Errigal Hotel, the only local dining option after 6pm. Cllr C Brady reported receiving numerous calls about the lack of a safe walking route near the filling station. She added that up to 200 workers cross daily to the filling station for food at breakfast and lunchtimes, as it is not feasible to drive into town due to the congested traffic flow on the Cavan Road. She stressed this was a health and safety issue and pointed out there is green space on both sides of the road wide enough to accommodate a full-width footpath, with no need to interfere with land, fences, or entrances. She also noted that other towns have footpaths extending 3–4km outside town limits and urged that this request be prioritised.
Mr C Mulligan advised that the MD’s priority for footpath works is maintaining the existing network, with new footpaths dependent on external funding streams, particularly Active Travel. Applications for such funding consider factors including location, budget, path length, cost, and pedestrian usage. He stated that for this case, a 270m footpath would be required along the R188, at an estimated cost of €30,000–€40,000. While agreeing that Cllr C Brady’s points were legitimate, he stressed that specific funding would need to be identified. The most likely route would be through Active Travel, and he confirmed the matter would be progressed with the Active Travel team.
Cllr C Brady thanked Mr C Mulligan for the response.
3. Cllr Carmel Brady, Barrier at Bottom of Cootehill Town: Cllr C. Brady reported that the barrier at the bottom of Cootehill town has been pushed further onto the footpath.
Mr. C. Mulligan advised that there has been difficulty in securing a contractor to carry out the works, but it is intended to have them completed.
Cllr S. Conaty also asked about signs which were protruding from the barrier, and Mr C Mulligan confirmed that these have since been cut back.
4. Cllr Carmel Brady, Damaged Footpath – Drumlin Drive to Cavan Road: Cllr C. Brady highlighted the urgent need to repair the footpath from Drumlin Drive to the corner at the bottom of the Cavan Road. She noted that a paving slab is turned up and a cone has been placed over it. She also stated that water running from Drumlin Drive is carrying dirt and silt due to the drain not functioning properly. She also raised concerns about an overgrown hedge, untouched for 10–12 years. Cllr C Brady emphasised that the issue poses safety risks, particularly for a wheelchair user living in the first house on the Cavan Road and another resident with mobility difficulties who requires assistance to use the path. She stressed the footpath is not fit for purpose and requires urgent attention.
Mr. C. Mulligan responded that a survey of the footpath network in Cootehill identified several locations requiring immediate action. Funding has been secured from Council own resources, and he has spoken with a contractor who will commence works before the end of this year.
Cllr C Brady thanked Mr C Mulligan for his response.
5. Cllr Stiofán Conaty enquired about the progress of the Cootehill Backlands project, as contained in the Cootehill Area Development Plan: Cllr S Conaty sought an update on the opening of the backlands in Cootehill Town to improve access and traffic flow in the town. He said the initiative would have clear benefits for the town, noting the very limited access is currently available at the rear of properties and businesses on Market Street.
Cllr C. Brady thanked Cllr S Conaty for raising the matter, noting it has been an ongoing issue for over 12 years. She explained it is a contentious matter as some residents’ gardens and backyards border the area. She added that when Aldi comes to the town which construction is expected to start after the completion of their Monaghan store, it would provide part of the required road link with the football field on the other side.
DOS P Connaughton explained that while the original thinking was to open up the backlands to provide an alternative route to alleviate traffic on main street, however physical constraints soon became apparent. The assessment showed there would not be sufficient room to accommodate lorries, so it could not function as a heavy traffic diversion. He added economic development is limited in the terms of backland development. He added that it is very hard to find an example of successful backland development nationally. While it may have long-term potential as an active travel route through the town, any significant development would require investment of millions with limited economic return and would ultimately need to be driven by the business community.
5. Cllr Stiofán Conaty sought a review of the traffic flow around Cootehill town, with a view to alleviating the growing pressures at Connolly's Corner: Cllr S Conaty sought a review of the traffic flow around the town, with a view to alleviating the growing pressures at Connolly's Corner, which is at the junction of the Cavan Road R188 and Bridge Street R190. He stated that it was hard to believe it has got as bad as it has and that between 3-6pm the traffic congestion at the junction is nearly as bad as Virginia and that it has got to a stage that people were avoiding coming into the town at certain times. He highlighted that there are four different directions converging at this one junction and asked if anything could be done to alleviate the traffic congestion. It has been suggested to him that a “no right turn” could be implemented for traffic heading to Monaghan, while traffic bound for Shercock could be redirected via Chapel Lane.
Cllr C. Brady expressed support for Cllr S. Conaty’s concerns, noting that traffic between 8:30–9:30 a.m. and 3:00–4:30 p.m., as well as evening traffic, is backed up to the first industrial estate. Another contributing factor to congestion is traffic turning onto the L-6061 Ashfield/Clara Road. This is a narrow road and if traffic consistently uses this alternative route to avoid the town, inlets would need to be provided to allow vehicles to pass. Additionally, hedges along this road need to be cut back, and the road requires repair work.
Mr. C. Mulligan responded that the R188 Cavan Road does experience congestion at peak times, with Google Maps indicating the worst delays occur around 5:30–6:00 p.m with traffic backing out to the fire station. He noted that, in comparison to larger towns nationwide, this congestion may not be considered significant. He referenced the RPS consultation carried out on behalf of Cavan County Council in 2010, which included a traffic and transportation study for Cootehill, with recommendations for Connolly Corner and the top of Main Street. The estimated cost at that time was €170,000; adjusted for current prices, this would be approximately €350,000. Given the nature and duration of the congestion, it would be difficult to justify this expenditure. However, the situation will continue to be monitored, and potential funding opportunities will be explored.
Cllr S. Conaty emphasized that if an incident occurs in the middle of the town, the fire brigade cannot access the area, and there is no space for first responders to get through. He stated that addressing this should be a priority.
6. Cllr Stiofán Conaty highlight local concerns about speed through Ballyhaise village and seeking speed calming measures, in particular in the area around the new playground: Cllr S. Conaty thanked the Council, particularly John Donohoe, for supporting the Ballyhaise Development Association in the development of the playground, describing it as a wonderful addition to the village. He expressed concern regarding traffic speed through the village, noting the risk to
children, as the playground is located right at the road edge. Many of the residential estates are on the opposite side of the road, requiring children to cross, and the ramps at Woodland Estate are not fit for purpose. He highlighted that traffic from the Agricultural College, including fast cars, buses, and school traffic, exacerbates the safety risk and suggested that a safe pedestrian crossing should be provided. Cllr V. Smith supported Cllr S. Conaty, acknowledging the significant work and investment in Ballyhaise but agreed that safety concerns remain.
Mr. C. Mulligan noted that enforcement of speed limits in towns and villages is a function of the Gardaí. He stated that ramps cannot be installed everywhere, and where speed limits are being breached, Garda enforcement is required. Within the village, there are already eight sets of vertical traffic calming measures installed within the 50 km speed limits, along with road markings and warning signs. He further explained that the playground is located off the R212, with ramps installed on either side: approaching the bend from the Cavan direction, there is a ramp at Village Court, and from the Redhills direction, there is a set of speed cushions after Woodlawns Estate. Active Travel had considered a pedestrian crossing near the playground, but it was not possible due to sightline requirements at the bend, which would not meet current standards.
Cllr S. Conaty noted that the Gardaí are not always present and suggested improving the existing ramps.
Mr C Mulligan confirmed that he would check that the existing speed cushions were compliant with current standards.
7. Cllr N Smith, Hedges and Fence on Shercock Road, Bailieborough: Cllr N Smith raised a query regarding the overgrown hedge and broken fence on the Shercock Road out of Bailieborough towards the roundabout, and whether it is the responsibility of the MD to carry out this work. He advised that this section of road is frequently used by pedestrians, who have complained that the overgrown hedges forcing them to step out onto the road. He also noted that the fence on the right-hand side is completely broken, and that Cllr S. Conaty had previously raised this issue at an MD meeting.
Mr. C. Mulligan confirmed that Cavan County Council is the registered owner of some of the land, with the remainder under private ownership. The Council will cut the hedges where it is responsible. Regarding the fence, he acknowledged it does need to be replaced and expressed a wish to have it completed this year, subject to available funding.
8. Cllr N Smith, Traffic Plan and Footpaths in Bailieborough Town: Cllr N. Smith requested an update on the Bailieborough traffic plan and highlighted the poor condition of the town’s footpaths. He also stressed the need for a pedestrian crossing near SuperValu at the bottom of Main Street, noting that the existing crossing is in the middle of the town and is not practical, as most shopping is concentrated at the other end.
Cllr A. Rodgers supported Cllr N. Smith’s comments, adding that the upcoming town regeneration project may provide an opportunity to address these issues.
Mr. C. Mulligan explained that a Rural Regeneration Development Fund application has been submitted to the Department, which includes proposals for public realm rejuvenation and upgrades to core town access. No decision has yet been received, and the outcome will determine what can be progressed on that street. We just have to wait until we see if the application is successful or not.
Cllr C. Brady added that she had received numerous phone calls and photos highlighting missing or obscured road signs on the Lakelands Dairies Road, Cavan Road, Kells Road and Virginia Road. She also reiterated that the condition of the footpaths remains poor.
DOS Mr P Connaughton wished to clarify that a traffic study has been completed for Bailieborough. He advised that an application for € I million in additional funding under the RRDF programme had been submitted to the department. He explained that if successful funding would transform the town. He added that the council would have to wait and see if this application is successful.
9. Cllr C Kelly, Has there been a report done regarding the various junctions in Kingscourt: Cllr C Kelly enquired if a report had been done regarding the various junctions in Kingscourt. Mr. C. Mulligan advised that he met with Cavan Road Safety Section in July this year, specifically regarding the junction at Chapel Lane (L7611) and the R164. He noted that traffic exiting from Chapel Lane onto the R164 has limited visibility when looking right (westwards) due to the boundary wall of the church. It may benefit from the installation of a speed ramp on the R164. The Road Safety Section is currently carrying out an assessment to determine if traffic calming is warranted, and if so, what the appropriate measures would be.
Cllr C. Kelly responded that this is a serious situation, and an accident could easily occur. He stressed that this has been ongoing for a long time without meaningful progress and asked if there was any report on the other junction.
Mr. C. Mulligan explained that the R165 junction was examined last year regarding the feasibility of introducing a pedestrian crossing. Accident statistics were reviewed along with traffic counts and speed surveys, and the conclusion was that a controlled pedestrian crossing could not be safely introduced at that location. Instead, short-term measures to improve driver awareness were recommended, including enhanced road markings and signage, particularly for traffic entering Bailieborough. These measures have since been implemented by the MD office.
Cllr C. Kelly emphasised that approximately 800 children cross at this location daily. He referred to a serious accident at the filling station where a lorry failed to stop, colliding with the premises, and noted that it was fortunate there was no explosion or loss of life. He added that there is a culture of traffic pushing through despite children crossing, and signage alone is not sufficient. He called for stronger measures to slow traffic approaching the junction.
Cllr Kelly further highlighted at the Rocks Road: Children from nearby housing estates must cross St. Mary’s Road and the Rocks Road on their way to the primary school on the Kells Road. Vehicles travel at speed on this route, and while enforcement is a Garda matter, the Council has an obligation as the road authority to provide safety measures.
Cllr C Kelly raised concerns at the Shercock Road, Kingscourt stating that the ramp near the roundabout should be set further back. He also highlighted issues with traffic speeding from Gilmore’s Garage towards the roundabout but expressed concerns that the council might view this as a garda enforcement matter.
Mr C Mulligan clarified that he did not state the issue was solely a Garda problem, though enforcement is indeed a Garda function. He advised that the ramps on the Shercock Road were installed as part of the school development and were the subject to a road safety audit. Cllr C Kelly stated that he could not understand how the current design was deemed safe. Mr C Mulligan replied that he would be meeting this week along with Cllr C Kelly with members of the Shamrock Avenue residents Committee, Cllr C Kelly also welcomed the two new footpaths recently installed on the Dublin Road outside Kingspan but expressed concern that traffic is still not slowing where pedestrians cross.
Addendum: Consider for adoption allocation of additional RI funding as issued by Department of Transport on 22nd August 2025
The addendum was brought before the MD Meeting and was proposed by Cllr C. Brady and seconded by Cllr N. Smith.
Bailieborough- Cootehill Municipal District has been allocated an additional €104k by the Department of Transport
Proposal to carry out a localised overlay on the R-165 Cavan-Bailieborough Road at the junction with the R-191 Cootehill/Canningstown road & the L-3552-0 Galbolie rd.
A.O.B
Cllr S. Conaty asked for an update to the previous meeting where Pat Gaynor made a presentation on TIC.
Cllr C. Kelly raised concerns regarding the Bailieborough Road, requesting more street lighting and footpaths beyond the Granada Ballroom.
Mr C Mulligan replied that this issue had been discussed previously. There is no dedicated funding for new footpaths outside approved Active Travel schemes, and additional resources would need to be secured.
Cllr C Kelly questioned whether the change from Area Offices to MD Offices was the right decision.
Cllr S. Conaty requested a campaign for a new footpath from the townland of Dung out to the Comprehensive School on the Bailieborough Road in Cootehill, as children from the post primary school and parents with buggies currently have no safe walkway. He suggested extending the speed limit further out the road as an interim measure.
Mr C Mulligan replied that the existing footpath already extends past the current speed limit. He reiterated that resources are limited and prioritised for the existing network. Schemes must pass NTA cost-benefit analysis, and new speed limits require by-law changes which are approved by members. Requests for footpaths could be funded from additional MD own resources if members agreed to fund it.
Cllr S Conaty added that there is no “School Ahead” signage before the dangerous bend and suggested relocating the speed limit sign. He stressed that the community is very concerned about this issue.
Cllr A. Rodgers asked about the Virginia Road out of Bailieborough, noting that the ramps are very severe. Cllr Rodgers noted that drivers were diverting via Pigeon’s Bray Road to avoid the ramps.
Mr C Mulligan replied he would be meeting with a surfacing contractor the following day and expected works to commence within the month. The ramps would be replaced to current standards.
Cllr C. Brady expressed her gratitude for the excellent work completed by the contractor on Phase 1 of Station Road, noting positive public feedback and looking forward to Phase 2.
Cllr A. Rodgers complimented the works on Barrack Street, Bailieborough, but highlighted an issue where gullies had been blocked with tar.
Mr C Mulligan undertook to examine this.
It was agreed that the next MD meeting would be held on the 4th November 2025 at 3pm in Cootehill.
Cathaoirleach V Smith thanked everyone present and the meeting concluded at 4.30pm.