Sinn Féin Councillor Willie Clarke Welcomes Safety Improvement Move On Newcastle Roundabout

Sinn Féín Mourne’s area Councillor Willie Clarke has welcomed Transport NI officials’ commitment to investigate scheme to improve safety at Roundabout in Newcastle.

dn_screenCllr Clarke, speaking following a meeting between Mourne’s Councillors and Transport NI recently, has welcomed confirmation from Transport NI that they will investigate the roundabout site to assess the feasibility of introducing a filter lane, to accommodate traffic coming from the Dundrum Rd, wishing to access the Castlewellan Road.

“ Cars waiting in the right hand lane as they attempt to leave the Roundabout from the Castlewellan Road face lengthy delays, particularly during the busy summer season. An extra lane would in my view greatly ease the pressure on traffic and improve the safety of pedestrians who face unacceptable safety concerns. During peak flow periods, pedestrians lives are being put in real danger as motorists jostle for priority to continue on their journey.

“Another main concern that needs addressed is whether the crossings are correctly located and are being utilised. The locations of the crossings need to be considered in terms of safety and accessibility; from a general observation it is noticeable the crossings are not located where pedestrians are crossing the road, these safety issues need to be made a priority by both Council and Transport NI,”  said Cllr Clarke.