Call for action over "dangerous" Idle Corner junction

By Rebekah O'Reilly

Offaly councillors have called for action from Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) over the "dangerous" Idle Corner junction.

Located on the N52 between Kilcormac and Blueball, and formed by the intersection of the the R357 to Mountbolus and the L6030 Garbally, the Idle Corner junction has been referred to as both "frightening" and "dangerous".

The motion was brought forward by Cllr Neil Feighery, who has been advocating for progress on the junction for over four years.

"The real issue is the sightlines and the speed," he said.

The Fine Gael politician garnered the support of members, with local residents also in attendance at the meeting.

"It's one of the most dangerous junctions on the N52," Cllr John Leahy said.

"We had a situation where landowners were willing to give up their land to make it safer. Speed and sightlines are the biggest thing there."

He continued that TII was responsible for the road.

"If we needed to do something, they'd be on our backs. They can't have it every which way, action is needed."

Director of Services Paul McLoughlin said TII has not listed the Idle Corner junction as a "high collision" location.

"In 2025, there was a scheme developed and progressed to preferred design with TII. No major progress has been made to date," he said.

"Do they want people to die before they do something," Cllr Peter Ormond said, expressing his frustration on the matter.

Cllr Feighery re-emphasised that TII has "a duty" to improve the road.

"It's just not acceptable. If TII don't step up can Offaly County Council do something? There are a number of small improvements that could be made."

The members agreed to write to TII to seek an update on plans for the junction.