Diana Armstrong has expressed disappointment after a decision not to introduce additional traffic-calming measures or a pedestrian crossing on the busy Main Road in Moygashel.
The Department for Infrastructure (DfI) recently concluded that the location does not meet the technical thresholds required for such interventions, despite ongoing concerns from local residents.
Ms Armstrong said she had been contacted repeatedly by people worried about safety in the village, particularly around school times and at key crossing points such as the local SPAR shop.
“I am very disappointed
by the Department’s decision,” she said. “Residents have raised serious concerns, particularly about children crossing the road at finishing time. One resident told me he fears his grandchild will be knocked down walking home from school.”
While speed humps are already in place at either end of the village, the MLA said these measures are not sufficient to slow traffic through the centre of Moygashel.
She added that although the Department’s assessment may not have met formal criteria, the strength of local feeling should not be ignored.
“The concerns of local people cannot be dismissed,” she said. “I will continue to press the Department to keep this location under review.”
Ms Armstrong is now encouraging residents to continue reporting their experiences to help build a stronger case for future safety measures.
“I would encourage people to come forward and share their concerns so we can continue to push for improvements,” she said.
A DfI spokesperson said: “All requests for improvements to the road network, including the provision of pedestrian crossings and other traffic calming measures are assessed in line with our current policies and guidance with a prioritisation system based on various factors including collision records and the speed, volume and type of traffic. This allows us to prioritise requests to ensure our limited resources are targeted to where there is the greatest need.
The Department recently carried out a traffic and pedestrian survey at this location and unfortunately it did not score highly enough to be considered for a crossing at this time. Concerns about driver behaviour such as speeding or other inconsiderate behaviour should be directed to the PSNI who have the powers of enforcement in that regard. They can be contacted on their non-emergency 101 telephone number.”
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