Roads and traffic issues are discussed

A wide range of local traffic issues were discussed when DRD Roads Service presented its Southern Division annual report to Banbridge District Council recently.
More disadvantaged students than beforeMore disadvantaged students than before
More disadvantaged students than before

Mr James Kelly, Traffic and Network Development Principal Officer and Mr Ian Campbell, DRD Road Services were welcomed by the Chairman Councillor Marie Hamilton.

Mr Kelly provided an outline of the contents of the spring 2014 report which was circulated to all members.

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Mr Kelly and Mr Campbell responded to queries and concerns from members.

Mr Kelly reported that Roads Service had re-branded to Transport NI. He noted that business will continue as usual and elected representatives will see no change to the good work on the ground.

Work to the B10 Banbridge Road/Grallagh Road junction to improve visibility and try to improve sight lines was discussed as there is a slight crest of a hill which is causing visibility issues. Members were informed that is intended to take a skim of the brow of this hill to address the issue.

With regard to the overhanging trees on the Loughbrickland Road, Rathfriland, members were told that a Roads Service representative had spoken to the landowner who is not willing to reduce the height of the trees.

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Mr Kelly noted that a road widening scheme at the location would cost in excess of £1 million and would compete with other schemes.

Mr Kelly explained there is a prioritised list of schemes and Roads Service has to work through this list.

He said that if an additional scheme is added then other schemes become displaced. There is no money currently available for the scheme at A25 Newry Road, Rathfriland.

Mr Kelly said that approval of reduced sight line standards is the responsibility of Roads Service Headquarters.

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There is currently no funding available for the scheme to enhance visibility at B7 Rathfriland Road/Dechomet Road Moneyslane, however it is hoped to commence work on site later this financial year.

Members were told that there are 70 traffic Calming Schemes in this District and each area must be treated fairly.

A total of £2.6 million has been provided for schemes in this financial year which is less than in previous years.

Members were told that there has been no feedback on the scheme at the Abercorn Primary School under Safer Routes to School so this is regarded as a positive sign.

It was requested by the Chairman that Roads Service consider ways of improving the standard of reinstatement of roads.

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