Roads chief accepts the need for one-way

Roads chief accepts the need for one-way

24 October 2012

DOWN District’s most senior roads official has admitted that a one-way system is the answer to traffic congestion problems at Edward Street in Downpatrick.

But Mr. Kevin Monaghan has warned there are hurdles to delivering the scheme at one of the town’s most heavily congested streets as a number of people are opposed to it.

He said the Roads Service is prepared to work with Down Council in a bid to address concerns people have about the one-way system and that engineers are looking at what else could be done to alleviate congestion at this part of the town.

Parents of children attending Our Lady and St. Patrick’s Primary School in Edward Street have warned increasing congestion is placing lives at risk and fully support the introduction of a one-way system to address the gridlock in the area.

Addressing Down councillors on Monday night, Mr. Monaghan admitted the provision of

one-way system is “the most effective way forward for Edward Street.”

In response to questions from a number of councillors the Roads Service’s divisional manager said the solution to the problems in Edward Street is “quite to clear to everyone,” but explained people’s objections cannot be discounted.

“We would very much like to introduce a one-way system, but regrettably there are objections to such a proposal which makes it difficult for us,” he said.

“We can go back to those people who have objected to the scheme to see if we can address their concerns but we would need the council’s help to do that.”

Mr. Monaghan said the Roads Service “can’t railroad objectors” who have to be given a hearing. He said roads officials have to demonstrate that objectors have been treated equitably.

Downpatrick councillors say it is essential road safety concerns in Edward Street are addressed, pointing to support for a one-way system from a number of the emergency services and Translink.

Councillor Cadogan Enright said while 25 people are against the introduction of a one-way system, the “overwhelming majority” of people in the town are in favour of it.

“There is an obvious need for a one-way system in Edward Street. When such a scheme

was piloted last year it was a success and people were disappointed when two-way traffic was reintroduced following work on a resurfacing scheme,” he added.

Councillor John Doris said a petition signed by parents of children who attend Our Lady and St. Patrick’s in support of a one-way system contained around 200 signatures.

“People are in favour of such a scheme and some who expressed opposition to its introduction in the past are now in favour of it,” he said. “If another survey of residents in the area was carried out to determine the level of support for a one-way system, the majority of people would be in favour.”

Following Monday night’s meeting, Downpatrick councillor Dermot Curran said he hopes politicians and council staff will work with the Roads Service to address concerns people have about a one-way system in Edward Street.

“I firmly believe this is the best way forward and there are many who share this view. Congestion is a major issue at this part of the town and we must at all times be mindful that there is a large school in the area. The safety of its pupils is paramount,” he added.