Traders urged to get involved in debate on traffic proposals

Traders urged to get involved in debate on traffic proposals

9 September 2015

THE Downpatrick business community must be “fully involved” in discussions on addressing town centre traffic congestion, according to a senior politician.

Councillor Dermot Curran said confirmation by TransportNI that it is planning to host a consultation event in the Down Arts Centre to discuss a blueprint on addressing congestion must be “grasped with both hands” by local traders.

He said the Downpatrick business community must use the forthcoming consultation event to speak with senior roads officials and highlight any concerns they may have about what is being proposed.

Just over three weeks ago, a blueprint aimed at easing traffic congestion and stimulate town centre growth was unveiled during a private meeting between roads officials and local politicians.

A one-way system, which traders have major concerns about, is proposed as an integral part of the new blueprint, operating in a clockwise direction from Market Street, Irish Street, Stream Street and St. Patrick’s Avenue.

A one-way system is also proposed for Edward Street to link with an existing one-way system in operation at nearby St. Dillon’s Avenue, in a bid to improve the safety of children attending Our Lady and St.Patrick’s Primary School. 

Roads officials also remain committed to examining the possibility of constructing a new road linking Irish Street and St. Patrick’s Avenue through the site of the town’s existing police station, once the PSNI moves to its new home at the Downshire estate.

Junction improvements are proposed for Collins’ Corner where five roads converge and a road widening scheme at Fountain Street which only last year was resurfaced.

Councillor Curran said in addition to the Downpatrick business community making the most of the forthcoming consultation event, members of the public should also get involved.

“Both traders and residents need to appraise themselves of what is proposed so they can discuss the proposals with roads officials,” he said. “We have to ensure there is support for the plans to address a traffic congestion issue which is having a negative impact on the town’s economy.

“Every business representative needs to become actively involved in the consultation process. The plan to finally solve the congestion problem is something we must get right. We need to all move forward together in agreement and end the constant procrastination on this particular issue.”

Councillor Curran is also encouraging traders and residents who have ideas about how the traffic issue can be tackled to speak with roads officials during the consultation event, the date of which has not yet been confirmed.

“Everyone has an opinion on how to address the problem and we need to have these on the table for discussion in a bid to reach agreement moving forward. We won’t get another chance like this again. We need to ensure everyone is fully involved in the process,” he declared.

Councillor Curran added: “We all need to work together to improve traffic flow and encourage new investment.”