Campaigner welcomes ban on lorries in Hillsborough village

“I specifically called for weight restrictions in my campaign literature - the only person who did - and am delighted with this announcement. There really is no need for large trucks to travel through Hillsborough.

They are a danger to pedestrians and potentially damaging to the Georgian buildings on the Main Street.”

Mr Johnston went on to say that there are still huge traffic concerns in the village.

“The new flyover on the A1 has led to hundreds more vehicles coming through the village, especially at peak travelling times,” he said. “Some of these are trucks, but many, many more are commuters seeking a short cut.”

Mr Johnston said local residents were concerned that the options for a new road by passing Sprucefield had not been considered properly.

“Any future road could help alleviate Hillsborough’s traffic problems, facilitate the development of Hillsborough Castle and improve access to the Maze.

“However the consultants examining the options for the Roads Service have not included these considerations.”