SDLP MLA Colin McGrath has said that anti-social behaviour in the Flying Horse has lost the local community a vital crossing.
Commenting the South Down MLA said: ‘’ I approached Transport NI and asked for the reinstatement of the Pelican Crossing along the Killough Road, however ,due to ongoing vandalism, my request has been declined and I can understand why.
“Between June and October 2016, almost £30,000 had been spent making repairs and keeping the facility safe.
“The Department has a duty of care to pedestrians using the facility and has to balance the safety of those wishing to cross the road against the safety of those using the damaged facility with potential for serious harm.
“The damage caused on a nightly basis made the site untenable resulting in the removal of the crossing in late October 2016.
“So not only does the local community suffer as pedestrians – (including children and pensioners) – can no longer cross the road safely at this point. But this £30k could have been spent on other very worthwhile projects.
“I would appeal to those carrying out these actions to think about their community and the damage and hurt they are continuing to cause.
“The people of the Flying Horse want and need this behaviour to stop.xa0 We all deserve to live safely and in peace but with this Anti-Social Behaviour continuing, daily life for many is a constant struggle”.
This section of the road has become busier because of the traffic issues in Downpatrick which are still ongoing.
