Speed limits on part of old N6 could rise in future

The speed limit on the Athlone to Rochfortbridge stretch of the old N6, now the R446 could rise to 100km per hour in the future, if the council approves the proposals and undertake consultation on the issue, Athlone Area Councillors were told recently. The news came after a query from Moate-based politician Tom Allen, who asked for an explanation why the speed limits on the regional roads like the old N6 from Kinnegad to Athlone fell from 100km per hour to 80km per hour. Director of Services Barry Kehoe said in reply that current legislation required that the default speed limit on all regional roads was 80km per hour, however due to the high-quality alignment and pavement on the R446 or old N6 between Athlone Rochfortbridge, it was proposed to increase the speed limit to 100 kilometres per hour on this section. This will require consultation and council approval, he added. Councillor Tom Allen also asked that there would be consultation with the public and the Gardaí.