Moneyslane road concerns addressed

Senior representatives from Roads Service as well as the local PSNI and concerned residents met to discuss the problems at Moneyslane crossroads.

Local resident Brian Ervine explained his fears as a road user and parent. He stressed that in his opinion the biggest danger was posed to dozens of local school children who meet at the crossroads to get on and off buses.

“The speed of the cars travelling on the main road at these key times is shocking. The traffic is very fast and on dark mornings, with lots of parents dropping off kids, I fear a serious accident is just waiting to happen. There is a major lack of warning signs and the lighting is inadequate.”

Minister Kennedy responded by assuring locals that an overall assessment of traffic volume and speed would be carried out. He said road markings could be improved and street lighting enhanced, however calls to have the speed limit reduced would be unlikely given the fact this is a A class road.

In terms of reducing speed, Minister Kennedy asked Roads Service to reassess the Dromara Road for the introduction of a 30mph zone. Locals said this move would greatly improve road safety especially for residents of Drumlin Grange, where over 40 children currently live.

This, along with the fact that the new Moneyslane Football Pitch will lead to increased traffic in the area, would strengthen the case for a reduced speed limit, said Mr Kennedy.

He also agreed that flashing warning lights outside Drumadonnell Primary School would make an overall difference to safety, and he gave an assurance that such a scheme would be installed subject to finance.

The Minister was reminded By Councillor Liz Ingram that the traffic volume at the already busy school would increase when the new nursery unit opens.

Local MLA John McCallister said, “I want to thank Minister Kennedy for coming out to see for himself the very worrying concerns here at Moneyslane. I feel that improved road markings, enhanced lighting, a visible police presence and flashing warning signs will go a long way to making Moneyslane a safer place.

“I agree that the situation in the morning time regarding school children is particularly perilous and I would welcome anything that helps protect the safety of our children.”