Speeding drivers causing concern

Speeding drivers causing concern

10 February 2016

STORMONT roads minister Michelle McIlveen is to be asked to address speeding concerns at one of the busiest roads in Downpatrick.

Residents at the Strangford Road, and people who walk in the area,  are becoming increasingly concerned at the speed of vehicles and the number of drivers ignoring the limits in place.

A 40mph restriction is in force heading towards the War Memorial from the Strangford direction where it then s down to a 30mph zone. 

Residents argue many drivers think the Strangford Road is governed by a 60mph with “thoughtless drivers” placing the lives of pedestrians at particular risk.

Councillor Dermot Curran is to raise the speeding issue with the Department of Regional Development Minister and will call for the 30mph limit to be extended further back along the main road, beyond Down Council’s former headquarters.

“There is mounting concern about the speeding issue along a stretch of road which services several major housing development. Downpatrick Cricket Club and Down Hockey Club are also located off the main road so there is always a lot of pedestrian activity at various times,” he continued.

“The Strangford Road is one of the most popular walking routes in Downpatrick and is always busy, particularly during the spring and summer months. It is important steps are taken to slow the speeders.”

Councillor Curran, who has voiced concern about speeding at this part of Downpatrick in the past, hopes the PSNI will deploy traffic officers to this part of the town in a bid to send out a strong signal that speeding will not be tolerated and could cost someone their life.

“Down High School has plans to relocate to a multi-million pound new campus at the Strangford Road in the future which will result in an increase of both pedestrian and vehicular traffic,” he continued.

“I am appealing to Ms McIlveen to take residents’ concerns on board. Maybe she will ask for a survey to be undertaken to ascertain the exact number of vehicles which use this road on a daily basis.”

Councillor Curran said that having spoken with several concerned residents, he is aware that it is not just so-called boy-racers who are speeding along the Strangford Road.

“I have been told that those who are breaking the law are mature drivers, people you would assume who should know better. We all have a responsibility to drive safely and within the speed limit in force along our roads.The limits are there for a reason and must be obeyed,” he declared.

Councillor Curran said there is a “clear and obvious need” for motorists to adopt a much more responsible attitude to their driving and slow down, to protect both themselves and pedestrians.