New policy on roadside memorials

Tipperary Co Council has adopted a new policy prohibiting the erection of roadside memorials on roads with a speed limit of 60kmph or higher.

The move is part of a national policy introduced by the Department of Transport at the end of last year. Memorials dedicated to people who lost their lives in road accidents are deemed dangerous on sections of road where there is fast moving traffic. The prohibition is in the interest of motorist, cyclist and pedestrian safety, especially where driver distraction is concerned, but also pertains to grass cutting and general roadside maintenance.

The council’s May meeting was informed that the policy does not apply to existing memorials; it will however apply to any memorial damaged as a result of an accident and requiring replacement. Councillors agreed that the issue is a “sensitive” one and said it should be treated accordingly.