SINN Féin MLA Chris Hazzard has called on the DOE Roads Service to “seriously explore” the possibility of a much needed footpath on the Loughinisland Road before somebody is seriously injured in an accident.
The South Down Assemblyman said: “I have been in contact with both Loughinisland residents and those who use the road daily in recent weeks. It is clear that something needs to be done soon to address the dangers that exist along this stretch of road.
“Just last year three young children were injured in a serious accident and local people are rightfully concerned that it’s only a matter of time before somebody is killed walking on this road.
“As we approach the darker nights it is becoming increasingly dangerous to walk on the road from the Buck’s Head into the village and from the village out to the main road. Previously pedestrians may have stepped onto the verge as cars approached; however they are no longer able as the roadside has become overgrown with vegetation.
“I have written to Roads Service to request an urgent site meeting in an effort to resolve this longstanding issue in Loughinisland. I believe that the safety of pedestrians, especially young children travelling to and from school, should not be put at risk any longer, and to this end I will be actively pursuing a quick solution to this dangerous situation.”
