Ballynamoney Lane footpath needs extended says O’Connor

Sinn Féin Councillor Tommy O’Connor asked Road Service to examine the potential for extending the footpath on the Ballynamoney side of the main Portadown Road.

Cllr O’Connor explained that the route from the Goodyear roundabout to the top of Francis Street, to Roundabout One and back to the Goodyear roundabout has become a popular route for walkers from both the Lurgan and Derrymacash village areas. He pointed out that the footpath along the railway side of the main road ends at the junction with Ballynamoney lane forcing walkers to cross a very busy four lane road.

He said: “Pedestrians crossing this road create a hazard for motorists and a danger for themselves. Continuing the existing footpath from the Ballynamoney junction to the Railway Bridge at the Lakes would remove the risks for both pedestrians and motorists alike.

“I have contacted Road Service about this issue and they have agreed to carry out a technical assessment on the viability of extending the footway. ”

ANALYSIS

Roads Service Spokesperson said: “Roads Service has agreed to carry out an initial technical assessment of the area. This will include an analysis of the existing road layout, vehicle traffic movements, environmental impact, scheme cost and the frequency and relevance of recorded collisions.

“Roads Service receives a large number of requests to consider proposals to make improvements to the road network. All requests must be compared and prioritised to target the limited available funding to those locations in greatest need of improvement.”