COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

MEETING OF CLONDALKIN, NEWCASTLE, RATHCOOLE, SAGGART AND BRITTAS AREA COMMITTEE

Wednesday, April 15, 2026

MOTION NO. 9

MOTION: Councillor S. O'Hara

That this Area Committee given the serious road safety risks at St. Mary's National School, Saggart, with over 600 pupils and heavy traffic at drop-off and collection times,  urgently carry out a road safety assessment and consider providing a dedicated school crossing lollipop lady within the next three months to ensure the safety of the children and their families.

REPORT:

A road safety assessment was carried out by the Road Safety Team from the transport department in 2025 during which a meeting was held with the vice principal of the school. 

There is currently a pedestrian crossing and a flashing amber light on the public road, which operates well with children using it to cross the road. At the time of the meeting, it was noticed that the Flashing Amber sign was out of order and this was repaired.   In addition,  it was agreed that SDCC would refresh the current road markings on the public road from the entrance to the church located adjacent to the school's access. A Road Safety Education and Awareness Programme was also offered to the school.  

On a recent reinspection, it was noted that the Flashing Amber Sign was again out of order and a part has been ordered and this will be repaired very soon.  it was agreed that white zig-zag lines will be installed between the traffic lights and the school entrance to dissuade parents stopping to drop off children on this stretch of road.  While parking opposite the junction with the private road is already prohibited (no parking within 5 meters of a junction), the Council will install DYL opposite the junction to reinforce this to motorists.