Traffic calming for busy Lurgan road is welcomed

The news was welcomed by both the SDLP and Sinn Fein.

SDLP Cllr Ciaran Toman said it follows many years of campaigning from residents in Taghnevan and political parties.

He revealed that the Department for Infrastructure Roads confirmed that a scheme on the Old Portadown Road, Lurgan is proposed for this year’s work programme.

The Lurgan Cllr said: “For many years cold water has been poured on calls for traffic calming measures on one of Lurgan’s busiest roads.

“I have contacted DFI Roads on many occasions to present my views and forward on the concerns of residents.

“From the Stables complex, up to the junction of the Tullygally East Road, there is no method of traffic calming and the speeds of vehicles have been a huge concern of mine and others.

“The area is now fully developed which brings more motorists to the area and throughout this pandemic, the Old Portadown Road has been a hotspot for pedestrians engaging in their daily exercise.

“I have witnessed motorists that use the right-hand turning lanes to enter the Stables complex and the Riverglade Manor estate prematurely drive into the turning lanes. This increases the risk of a head on collision coming over the braw of the hill. I have forwarded these concerns on and I hope these are reflected in the scheme coming forward.

“I am delighted that I could play my part to facilitate this, but I want to thank the patience of the residents and the community who played a key role in securing this investment.

In correspondence with Cllr Toman, the DFI said: “I can confirm that a scheme on Old Portadown Road, Lurgan is proposed for this year’s work programme. The scheme, subject to detailed design, will involved the construction of pedestrian islands which will help both with traffic calming and improving pedestrian crossing facilities, however we will also take into consideration the issues you have raised. These proposals will also complement with the existing pedestrian islands on the Old Portadown Road.”

Sinn Fein Cllr Liam Mackle welcomed the news.

He said: “After many years of lobbying, the Department have eventually agreed to additional traffic calming measures on the Old Portadown Road.

“I can confirm that a scheme on Old Portadown Road, Lurgan is proposed for this year’s works programme.

“The scheme, subject to detailed design, will involve the construction of pedestrian islands which will help both with traffic calming and improving pedestrian crossing facilities. These proposals will also complement with the existing pedestrian islands on the Old Portadown Road.”

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Around 70% of traffic wardens in NI on furlough during Lockdown Read full story here

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