Mathison Raises Safety Concerns Over Lack of Street Lighting at Drumaness Bus Stops
Strangford Alliance MLA Nick Mathison is calling on the Department for Infrastructure (DfI) to address road safety concerns on both sides of the A24 at the junction with the Drumaness Road.
Constituents have contacted Mr Mathison to highlight what they describe as an increasingly unsafe situation, particularly for school children who rely on public transport in the early mornings and late afternoons.
With neither bus stop benefiting from any nearby street lighting, passengers are frequently forced to cross the busy A24 in near-darkness throughout the winter months, particularly on the Ballynahinch bound side.
DfI, however, has declined to provide street lighting, citing the request does not comply with their street lighting policy.
Mr Mathison said the situation poses “a clear and avoidable risk” to those using the stops.
“Parents and residents in Drumaness are rightly worried,” he said. “These bus stops serve a large number of school pupils, many of whom are out before daylight during the darker months.
“Expecting children to cross a fast, busy road like the A24 without adequate lighting is simply not acceptable. This is a basic safety issue, and it needs to be treated with urgency.”
“DfI’s refusal to even consider the request for lighting is deeply concerning,” he added. “I wrote to the Department and asked them to urgently reconsider their position but they have again simply restated policy. It is clear to me that if policy does not promote the safety of our children, then the policy cannot be fit for purpose”.
Mr Mathison confirmed he will continue to apply all necessary pressure on the Department on this matter.
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