Speed restrictions for road near the Curragh to be considered for safety of jockeys and horses

Kildare County Council have been asked to consider lowering the speed limit on the R413 road during certain hours to ensure the safety of those involved in the equestrian industry.

The road runs between Kildare Town and the Curragh Racecourse, and it is a popular route for stablehands and jockeys to bring their horses in the morning times.

Cllr Morgan McCabe has asked a meeting of the Kildare-Newbridge Municipal District to review the speed limit and put restrictions in place between 6am and 1pm in order to reduce the possibility of an accident between jockeys, stable staff, horses and speeding vehicles.

The council have said that they already assessed the route but they will consider the changes.

The council response stated;

“Work was carried out during the summer following discussions between the Municipal District Engineer and the Curragh Racecourse and representatives of horse owners and trainers in this area to improve the R413, particularly in the vicinity of the schooling grounds.

“This work included road repairs, surface dressing to restore and seal the road surface and improved road markings to alert oncoming road users and was funded entirely by the Kildare-Newbridge Municipal District Office. The Kildare-Newbridge Municipal District Office has no further plans in this area.

“This issue has also been forwarded to the Speed Limit Review team for examination and consideration. The Draft County Wide Speed Limit Review will be discussed with the members in October.”