Growing concern as misdirections put Drumkeeran at risk
A routine Manorhamilton Municipal District meeting turned into a discussion about safety after several near-miss incidents were linked to Google Maps directing holidaymakers, HGVs and other vehicles along the wrong road in Drumkeeran, North Leitrim. Local councillor Pádraig Fallon called for urgent action, urging officials to redo faded line markings and to engage with Google Maps to correct routing problems that appear to push coaches and lorries toward Sheena when travelling south through the village.
Speaking at the meeting, Cllr Fallon said he has observed a well-known tour bus company from the south of the country, along with articulated lorries, heading towards the national school as they navigate Drumkeeran. He noted that while it’s “great to see” tour buses in Leitrim, the problem lies in the misdirection: experienced drivers are not likely to choose the wrong route if markings were clearer, implying the wrong guidance is coming from Google Maps. “It is obvious they are being directed that way by Google Maps,” he argued.
What local authorities are doing and what drivers report
Paul McMahon, Senior Engineer for Manorhamilton Municipal District, explained that there is currently no direct customer complaint option within Google Maps, but drivers can log the route they have taken if an issue arises. He reassured the meeting that the Roads Department would review the line-marking situation in Drumkeeran and schedule the necessary works before the year ends. He acknowledged the tension created by the near-misses, noting that “there’ve been one or two close calls” in the vicinity of the junction. He added that a ramp located about 30 metres from the junction has helped slow down traffic, mitigating risk for those using the road during peak travel times.
Additional concerns: flooding risks near Correda
In a separate issue, Cllr Fallon asked the MD to carry out flood mitigation works on the L4166-2 at Correda, outside Dromahair. He explained that overlay works have left the road higher than adjacent driveways, causing water to pool outside three houses during heavy rain. Road staff will inspect the area to determine the extent of required works and to plan a suitable mitigation response.
Looking ahead: improvements and map outreach
The meeting underscored the broader challenge of balancing tourism, traffic management and safety in rural Leitrim. While authorities are moving to reseal line markings and consider flood-related interventions, the software-based navigation issue remains a complex problem that may require coordination with Google Maps to adjust routing data for Drumkeeran’s road network. In the meantime, residents and local officials continue to monitor the situation, encouraging drivers to report problematic routes through formal channels when possible and to exercise caution at the junction near Sheena and the national school.
What residents can expect
Officials confirmed that line-marking works will be programmed before year-end and that a formal review of the problem will include closer monitoring of traffic flow patterns around the Drumkeeran junction. The collaboration between local government and road users aims to reduce risk, improve signage, and ensure that navigation software reflects the actual road network to protect both visitors and residents.
