Driving a car around Drogheda these days is like taking a trip back in time to the 1970’s and 1980’s when potholes were everywhere and the scene of many a “point and grin” photo opportunity for local Councillors as they complained that “something must be done”.
Those of us of a certain vintage will remember that driving the ridiculously potholed roads was a most uncomfortable and often expensive experience.
Cars were smaller and lighter then and tyres are hugely improved and more robust than they were, but spinal columns are still as susceptible to damage as ever.
Since the roads were dug up to allow the installation of water, broadband and other utilities the problem has grown substantially worse.
Potholes are seldom missing from the agenda at Council meetings and last night’s Drogheda Borough Council meeting was no different as Independent Councillor and outgoing Mayor Kevin Callan challenged officials on the lack of action at the Beechgrove and Crushrod Avenue junction.
“We have been waiting for over 16 weeks for action” Callan said, “the road is disintegrating and the logic of the council, as stated tonight, that we should be tactical in not fixing roads as they may be getting funding later through the roadworks programme is absolutely ridiculous.
“The result will be that people damage their cars and claim for damage caused. The road will also continue to fall apart” he said.
“We need this surface replaced immediately and I am demanding the council confirm the course of action to be taken.”
Cyclists and drivers will know that the Beechgrove potholes are not unique. Almost every road in the town has its fair share of craters and quarries.
Councillor Callan could have included hundreds of potholes that are equally severe if he had chosen to tackle this issue “holeistically” rather than on a pothole by pothole basis!
