A trial ‘clockwise route’ traffic system is being introduced in North Clare to ease congestion on the R477 coastal road, running from Ballinalackan Junction to Ballyvaughan.
The initiative is led by Clare County Council and supported by various agencies, including Fáilte Ireland, the Cliffs of Moher Experience, and the Burren & Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark.
Tourism Traffic Ambassadors have been deployed to manage traffic and engage visitors across North Clare, while signage, traffic calming measures, and additional facilities have been put in place to improve traffic flow and visitor experiences.
The aim is to enhance the local tourism economy while minimizing the impact of increased traffic on the environment and communities, with a focus on collaboration between stakeholders and ongoing evaluation of the trial’s effectiveness.
Tom Barrett, Chairman of the North Clare Communities Group (NCCG) said, “the introduction of a Clockwise Travel System for Tourist Coaches and Camper Vans is an important first step in improving the overall travel and traffic management situation throughout North Clare for the local communities and visitors as well as other steps, now under preparation, improving conditions for improving public transport services; parking and active travel, including pedestrians, schoolchildren and cyclists by reducing road congestion and traffic risk for the local communities as well as visitors. NCCG encourages all local communities, local and tourism businesses as well as visitors to collaborate with Clare County Council in improving traffic management and safety in North Clare as it is key to ensuring the sustainability of North Clare communities. NCCG will continue to update and consult local communities on the results achieved from the implementation over the next 2 years of the Traffic Management Plan.”
