Pedestrian crossing required to address Newcastle safety issue

Pedestrian crossing required to address Newcastle safety issue

31 July 2019

ROADS officials have been asked to consider providing a pedestrian crossing at Newcastle’s South Promenade.

The suggestion — to help improve driver and pedestrian safety at this busy part of the resort — was made recently by South Down MLA Colin McGrath during a meeting with Department for Infrastructure and Newry, Mourne and Down Council officials.

The MLA said people who have to enter South Promenade have to contend with a busy traffic flow, with vehicles making their way to and from the Kilkeel direction.

Mr McGrath continued: “This is a busy thoroughfare at all times of the day. As you leave the centre of Newcastle this particular road narrows and there are also a number of parked cars.

“Unfortunately, this high level of traffic has given rise to a number of speeding issues and there have been a number of collisions. Several years ago, a local man also lost his life in an accident at this part of the town.”

Mr McGrath explained that residents were keen to see a new crossing provided, suggesting that an ideal location would be at the bottom of Bath Lane.

He explained: “This would allow pedestrians to cross the road in a safe manner but also form another connection between King Street and the Kilkeel Road. I have also contacted the local council to request the installation of a second pedestrian railing going down the steps at Bath Lane as a health and safety measure.”

Mr McGrath said it was important that roads and footpaths in the resort were safe, issuing an appeal to road users lower their speed and be mindful of their fellow road users.