Brakes on A2 speeders

An urgent appeal has been made for a second speed reduction to be imposed on Carrick's main A2 road.
Roy BeggsRoy Beggs
Roy Beggs

The call comes just a week after confirmation of a 20mph restriction at Belfast Road outside Model Primary School.

Infrastructure Minister Chris Hazzard has been told that a traffic management scheme is also necessary outside Eden Primary at Larne Road.

Speaking during Question Time at the NI Assembly, Roy Beggs MLA called for delivery of the scheme at Model Primary and asked when the scheme will be rolled out to Eden.

The minister confirmed that he is “actively seeking ways” in which his department can “address their needs as soon as possible”.

He stated: “There are approximately 150 of them, so it is something that I am very keen to do, and I want to move on it as soon as possible.”

Commenting on the road scheme, Martin Sheeran, principal of Eden Primary said: “The speed of traffic outside the school in general is the same as outside any other school in a built-up area, there are times when cars are travelling too quickly.

“It is fortunate that there is a crossing and a patrol person. A speed reduction would benefit residents in the village as well as the school.”

Mr Beggs continued: “Following on from Question Time at Stormont, I have communicated with the minister to get further information relating to the delivery of the pilot scheme at Model Primary School and also asked for additional information relating to the department’s longer term ambitions for rolling out the scheme in other parts of East Antrim. I look forward to his reply.”

Model Primary is to receive funding to trial a part-time speed restriction involving electronic signs which will illuminate at school opening and closing times and will be enforced by the PSNI.

Patricia Donald Johnston, chairperson, of Carrickfergus Road Safety Committee, said that the development was “greatly welcomed”.

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