Newry Armagh Sinn Féin Sinn Féin -- Building an Ireland of Equals

COUNCILLOR TAKES POSITIVE STEPS IN ORDER TO RESOLVE ACCIDENT BLACK SPOT

Published: 17 July, 2009

Armagh Sinn Féin councillor Mary Doyle has recently reported an accident black spot on the main Armagh to Monaghan road, the section of road near Madden has sharp bends which are treacherous. The family who lives at the bends has told Cllr Doyle that eleven accidents have occurred there in the past seven months, five of those were in the last few weeks.

Cllr Doyle said

"I have contacted

DOE Road

Safety Section, who have previously been made aware of the long history of danger in the area. I informed them that the family lives in constant fear of either a road user or a member of their household being killed if something is not done to resolve the issue.

"I arranged to meet the DOE roads service officials at the site, and on Tuesday the 7th July the meeting took place. Two roads service officials as well as local residents, MLA Cathal Boylan and myself were present. We had a very constructive discussion regarding all aspects of road safety in the area. While we were at the roadside it was clear that this is a very busy road with fast moving traffic.

"There was a very positive outcome of the meeting, and whilst there, the roads service officials assessed the road and have agreed to increase warning signage, to encourage traffic to slow down. They also acknowledged the many dangers and we all agreed that a more long term solution was important in order to solve the problem. The plan to pursue this project has now been put in motion.

"I would like to thank the Department of Environment for being so receptive to the need for change on this road. I will continue to work with the residents and the DOE on this issue. Finally I would encourage all drivers to please drive safely and be particularly careful on this road, for the safety of all.