Road safety concern around Downpatrick

Road safety concern around Downpatrick

24 September 2025

ROADS officials have been asked to address concern about restricted views for drivers emerging from the St Dillon’s Avenue junction with Edward Street in Downpatrick.

South Down MLA Colin McGrath and local councillor Conor Galbraith say a line of parked cars during the morning and afternoon when pupils are arriving and leaving Our Lady and St Patrick’s Primary School, is posing problems for drivers and pedestrians.

Mr McGrath said residents feel unsafe as they turn onto Edward Street due to the parked cars, with oncoming traffic coming towards them in both directions.

“Sightlines are poor, with drivers often forced to edge forward just to see oncoming traffic,” he explained.

“That is a risk no one should have to take. We need to see improvements to road markings and layout at this junction to make it safer for everyone who uses it.”

Mr McGrath added: “Residents deserve safer streets and practical measures that reduce congestion and risk. We will keep working until these improvements are delivered.”

Cllr Galbraith said the traffic congestion during school -off and pick-up times is compounding safety risks. 

He also said introducing the so-called a school street scheme — which bans traffic for a period of time as pupils are entering or leaving school — is something the SDLP has campaigned for.