Mournes Sinn Féin Councillor Willie Clarke has written to DFI Roads Service requesting them to provide a footpath along Bryansford Road, Newcastle, from Daisy Lodge to Tollymore Forest Park entrance.
Cllr Clarke said: “I have recently met with staff from Daisy Lodge who provide free therapeutic short breaks for families whose young ones are affected by cancer. I agree with their view that the wellbeing of visitors to Daisy Lodge is being impacted by the present lack of a safe footpath.
“Children and their guardians are booking into the centre to reduce stress in their lives and to relax and I have real concerns for families who are on respite at the centre when cycling or walking to Tollymore Forest Park from Daisy Lodge.”
Cllr Clarke added: “It may be only a matter of time before a pedestrian is injured or perhaps worse, and given this road carries a large volume of traffic on a daily basis, vehicles are traveling at speeds of over 60mph.
“I strongly feel that DFI Roads, should give a high priority for a new footpath along the Bryansford Road from Daisy Lodge to Tollymore Forest Park given the special circumstances the users of Daisy Lodge face.”
