Translink backs one way traffic proposal

Translink backs one way traffic proposal

27 June 2012

TRANSLINK has backed calls for a permanent one-way traffic system at Edward Street in Downpatrick.

The transport company has added its voice to a growing clamour for an end to two-way traffic which is viewed as dangerous to pupils at Our Lady and St. Patrick Primary School.

Senior Translink official, Gary Mawhinney, said drivers have encountered numerous issues in Edward Street in the past due to “excessive traffic, inconsiderate parking and narrow road width.”

In a letter to Downpatrick councillor Cadogan Enright, Mr. Mawhinney said on average, Translink vehicles are involved in “two significant accidents” each year at this part of Downpatrick and numerous near misses.

“Our drivers encounter difficulties on a daily basis at school times, but particularly each afternoon when traffic is at a peak. Whilst in principle we would be in favour of a one-way system at Edward Street, our preference would be for it to operate heading towards the town centre which would allow easier access to the front of the primary school.”

Councillor Enright said residents, parents and teachers at the school are fully supportive of a permanent one-way system being provided.

He said a temporary one-way system introduced in Edward Street last year was a “tremendous success” and revealed several hundred people have signed a petition supporting its return.

Councillor Enright said the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service is also supportive of a permanent one-way system in Edward Street. He said ambulance personnel have voiced their concerns about access to the Downe Hospital and ambulances being delayed by “regular chaos” at this part of Downpatrick.

“The crossing patrol man at Our Lady and Saint Patrick’s also believes a one-way system is the only way to resolve the traffic chaos. Last Friday was a nightmare in Edward Street with traffic backed up out of sight in both directions for over 30 minutes,” he continued.

Councillor Enright said the congestion issue must be resolved before the new school year in September and confirmed Downpatrick councillors are due to meet roads officials next week to press the case for a permanent one-way system in Edward Street.

Earlier this month, a Roads Service official told Down councillors that engineers are looking at problems in Edward Street, explaining the worry is that by resolving issues at this part of the town “it could create problems elsewhere.”

Mr. Roger Morgan added: “We are well aware of the problems at this part of the town where there is housing on both sides of the road which makes it difficult for us to do anything. We are planning improvements at Collins’ Corner and hope this might help the situation in Edward Street.”