Traffic jams to be eased at busy junction

Traffic jams to be eased at busy junction

2 September 2015

ROADS officials have agreed to help improve traffic flow at one of Downpatrick’s busiest road junctions during off-peak times.

Five roads converge at Collins’ Corner in the town with traffic flow regulated by traffic lights which turn green for varying lengths of time. The allocated time the lights allow traffic to flow does not change over a 24-period which can lead to frustration for drivers, particularly at night when the amount of traffic passing through the junction decreases substantially.

Councillor Colin McGrath said drivers can find themselves waiting for a long time at a red traffic light even though there is very little traffic about, confirming he raised the issue during a recent meeting with roads officials.

He explained a so-called loop system which governs the traffic lights settings at Collins’ Corner has not been working properly but is to be repaired to make life easier for the motoring public.

“Many motorists may 

have noticed that late at night when there is virtually no traffic around, the traffics lights at this junction still adhere to the set timings during the day which means it can take several minutes for lights to switch from red to green.

“Fixing the loop system will ensure traffic approaching the lights at the various junctions during the evening and overnight will be given priority.”

Councillor McGrath said the issue is important for taxi drivers who have to wait at a red light when there are no other vehicles around and is pleased repairs to the loop system are to be carried out soon.