Accident sparks Killyleagh appeal

Accident sparks Killyleagh appeal

31 July 2013

A KILLYLEAGH politician is to step up his campaign for a pedestrian crossing in the town after a female pedestrian was struck by a car last week.

Several years ago, the Roads Service provided a pelican crossing at Catherine Street in the town, but councillor Billy Walker says more needs to be done to improve safety. He wants the pelican crossing replaced with a pedestrian crossing which would result in traffic lights being installed at this part of Killyleagh.

The female pedestrian sustained an injury to her arm and bruising after she was clipped by a car which failed to stop at the existing pelican crossing.

Councillor Walker is due to meet with Roads Service and PSNI officials this week to discuss his proposal for a pedestrian crossing.

“The existing pelican crossing last week is a major concern. There have been a number of near misses at this part of the town and it’s clear that the existing pelican crossing is ineffective,” he declared.

Councillor Walker has been campaigning for the provision of a pedestrian crossing at Catherine Street for a number of years and while the Roads Service has carried out a number of surveys at this part of the town, it has yet to agree to the local politician’s request.

Councillor Walker believes last week’s incident should persuade roads officials to take a fresh look at the need for a pedestrian crossing at what is the main road running through the heart of the town.

“There is no doubt that the number of vehicles using Catherine Street is increasing. I believe a pedestrian crossing is required and that if one is provided, parking spaces close to it may have to be relocated to provided pedestrians and motorists with an unobstructed view,” he continued.

“I am fully aware that the Roads Service must direct its resources to areas where there are currently no pedestrian crossing facilities, but one must be provided in Killyleagh. If not, people’s lives will continue to be put at risk as they cross Catherine Street.”

Councillor Walker said the speed of cars approaching Catherine Street from the Comber direction in particular is also major concern and needs to be addressed.

He added: “I hope this week’s meeting with the Roads Service and PSNI will result in a satisfactory outcome for the people of Killyleagh and make Catherine Street much safer.”