Near-misses prompt concern in Drumkeeran
Local councillors and county officials opened a discussion at the Manorhamilton Municipal District meeting after residents reported that Google Maps appears to be steering holidaymakers, coaches and heavy goods vehicles along the wrong route through the North Leitrim village of Drumkeeran. Cllr Pádraig Fallon said the misdirection has resulted in several near-miss incidents as drivers head towards Sheena when travelling south through the village, close to the national school.
He noted that while it’s great to see tour operators passing through Leitrim, these are seasoned drivers who should not be tripped up by faded markings or faulty directions. “It’s obvious they are being directed that way by Google Maps,” Fallon warned, urging action to prevent vulnerable road users from finding themselves on the wrong turn.
According to Fallon, a well-known tour bus company from the south and articulated lorries have been observed driving toward the school and other sensitive junctions, underscoring the safety risk posed by the current routing. The retired route is not just a novelty; it has real implications for pedestrian safety and village traffic calm, especially around peak tourist periods.
Official response and what’s being done
In response, Paul McMahon, Senior Engineer for Manorhamilton Municipal District, explained that there is no direct customer complaint option within Google Maps, but drivers can log their routes if they encounter issues. He added that the Roads Department will review Drumkeeran’s line markings and programme the works before the end of the year. He also noted that there have been one or two close calls and highlighted a ramp located roughly 30 metres from the junction as a key device that has helped slow incoming traffic.
No formal Google Maps complaint option
McMahon stressed that while the MD cannot compel Google Maps to alter routes, it can collate local feedback and log problem spots for consideration in future updates to mapping and signage. The meeting underlined the need for consistent, visible lane guidance for large vehicles navigating narrow village streets.
Road safety measures planned
The Roads Department will undertake a focused review of the faded line markings and accelerate a repainting programme to improve lane discipline and prevent drivers from veering onto undesired routes. Officials emphasised that clearer marking, augmented by optimal signage, can reduce dependence on mapping apps as sole navigational references. The department will monitor traffic flows and adjust plans as required to ensure both residents and visiting coaches are routed safely.
Traffic calming and future-proofing
Officials indicated that improvements will include enhanced edge lines, clearer turning arrows, and possible advanced warning signs at the Drumkeeran approach, aiming to reduce speed and confusion at the junctions that have proven problematic for large vehicles.
Flood mitigation concerns at Correda, L4166-2
Separately, Fallon requested flood mitigation works on the L4166-2 at Correda, outside Dromahair. He explained that post-overlay road levels now sit higher than several driveways, causing floodwater to accumulate outside three homes during heavy rainfall. The Roads staff will conduct an inspection to assess the extent of works required and to protect properties from future flooding.
<h3Impact on residents
Officials stressed that drainage improvements must be prioritized to protect homes while ensuring the road remains accessible for residents and emergency services in all weather conditions.
Looking ahead
District representatives concluded that improving safety for Drumkeeran’s roads will require a combination of better markings, smarter routing feedback to mapping services, and targeted flood-defence work. While mapping apps can help visitors find rural attractions, the local authority remains committed to ensuring that the village’s streets stay safe for coaches, HGVs, residents, and young pupils alike.
