Problem roundabout may have to be replaced after lorry incidents

Problem roundabout may have to be replaced after lorry incidents

14 August 2013

A MINI roundabout at the rear of the Grove shopping centre in Downpatrick is to be replaced.

The structure comprises raised kerbs, brick paving and planting areas and also incorporates a memorial plaque to world political prisoners.

The roundabout is maintained by Down Council but members of its Building and Estates Committee were told last week that the structure has been vandalised.

In addition, large lorries making deliveries to businesses at this part of the town, have struck the roundabout and damaged it.

Council officials say the roundabout is now showing its age in terms of design, following the major refurbishment of the nearby St. Patrick’s Square area during Downpatrick’s £3m environmental improvement scheme.

Council officials want to replace the roundabout with a painted structure similar to those in many parts of the district and hope to secure approval for the move from the Roads Service.

Contact is also to be made with the local branch of Amnesty International to relocate the plaque to world political prisoners to the nearby Grove area.