Calls for traffic calming as Massgoers accused of blocking Fold entrance

Angela Crossey and Margaret O Neill with Sinn Fein Cllr Liam Mackle

Despite repeated requests by clergy at St Peter’s Church in North St, some Massgoers continue to park at the entrance to Oakleigh Fold.

Sinn Féin Councillor Liam Mackle has called for traffic calming measures at the entrance.

He said: “I have been in contact with Transport NI over the past few months about motorists parking illegally blocking the entrance to the Fold. I have requested traffic calming in this area.

“Transport NI have repainted the road markings but as yet have not carried out any other work. There have been two recent fatalities in the immediate area and residents of the Fold are very concerned.

“I would ask that motorists who park in the area, particularly at Mass times, are respectful of the fact that elderly residents and their families deserve safe access to their property.

“The car park in the Fold is for residents and their visitors only. There are ample parking spaces in the area. There is therefore no need to use or block the Fold car park.

“I will continue to lobby Transport NI for additional measures but in the meantime urge people to be aware of the difficulty their actions may cause.”

Parish Priest Canon Liam Stevenson said: “I am annoyed that parishioners attending Mass do not respect the rights of the residents of Oakleigh Fold by parking on their private property and obstructing the entrance of the Fold.

“I will once again draw attention to it this weekend and insert a notice in our Parish Bulletin.”

A Department for Infrastructure spokesperson said: “The Department has refreshed road markings in the area and is considering if any other engineering measures could be introduced in the vicinity to further improve road safety and traffic progression. We would remind all road users to be mindful of the safety of vulnerable road users on busy urban streets such as North Street in Lurgan. Traffic obstruction at the entrance to the Fold is an enforcement matter for the PSNI and should be brought to their attention.”