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A toll is being proposed for the main bridge going into Killorglin town in County Kerry with the motion receiving support from the local council.
The “tariff” of €20 on all large tourist buses crossing the old limestone bridge over the Laune was proposed by Independent Councillor Podge Foley at the Kenmare Municipal District Meeting.
The eight-arch 123m road bridge is the main access to South Kerry for the many dozens of large tourist coaches passing on the Ring of Kerry run during the tourist season.
In recent years, concerns have been raised about the bridge and the heavy traffic passing through Killorglin.
Mr Foley has been seeking various measures to enhance Killorglin as a town where tourists stop, rather than pass through.
“I propose a tariff of €20 on all large tourist buses crossing the Laune. This money can be used to keep the bridge clean and help develop the attractiveness of the town,” Mr Foley said.
Kenmare Fine Gael Councillor Teddy O’Sullivan Casey seconded the proposal.
Council management told Mr Foley the tariff proposal “would essentially be a toll on the route“ which would have to be introduced in accordance with the provisions of the Roads Act, 1993, as amended.
Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) oversees the implementation of tolling in Ireland and there were no tolls in train for the N70, the council said.
It sought to reassure the councillor a scheme for urban renewal was being advanced for the town. This would include a significant public realm improvement scheme. An architect led multi-disciplinary design team are progressing preliminary designs at present.
However Mr Foley persisted with the proposal which was supported and will now be sent to the TII.