Young speeders cause concern in Saintfield

Young speeders cause concern in Saintfield

RESIDENTS in Saintfield have appealed for help amid mounting concern about young motorists driving at speed at the Downpatrick Street car park.

Drivers are performing handbrake turns and so-called donuts in the car park at night and their actions are a major source of annoyance for nearby residents.

The issue was raised at a recent meeting in Saintfield attended by Rowallane councillors Billy Walker and Terry Andrews, along with representatives from a number of statutory agencies.

The local councillors explained that in addition to the noise the young drivers are creating, residents fear a pedestrian or one of the drivers could end up being injured.

Councillor Walker said there is a set of gates at the entrance to the car park which residents have said they would be prepared to close on the Road Service’s behalf at night and open again in the morning.

“Roads officials have made it clear that they have no issue with the gates being closed at night, but would not have the manpower to do it,” said councillor Walker.

“Some community representatives who attended the recent inter-agency meeting said residents would be prepared to open and close the car park gates.”

Councillor Walker said he plans to have further discussions with residents and the Roads Service in a bid to stop the car park being used by so-called boy racers.

Councillor Andrews welcomed the decision by residents in Saintfield to do what they can to address the car park issue which has caused local concern.

He added: “Residents are worried about what these young drivers are up to. Closing the car park gates at night is one option to help address the problem, but I would hope that police on patrol in Saintfield will also keep an eye on these young people. Driving cars at speed and in an erratic manner puts drivers and pedestrians at risk.”