Road-users 'dazzled' by Black Arch lights

A Carnlough Community Association representative contacted the Larne Times about what he felt was a danger to road-users.

“We are concerned with the bright lights that have appeared at the Black Arch. They can be seen from a distance and look like on-coming traffic, then when you arrive they dazzle and make it hard to see any on-coming traffic under the arch.

“We have received many comments on how dangerous this area has become. What is their purpose?” he queried.

A spokesperson for the DRD explained that last autumn, discussions were held with a number of Larne councillors and the Larne Borough Council chief executive with regard to the provision of lighting from the Black Arch to the speed limit.

“While Roads Service wanted to install conventional lighting on normal columns, the councillors did not want to detract from the arch. A compromise was reached and Roads Service agreed to trial a number of low-level lighting units over the winter. Six lights were installed at the end of September 2009 and these have functioned well over the winter months with no complaints from the public.

“The last seven lights were installed during early March 2010 to take the lighting out to the speed limit sign as originally agreed.

“All of these lights were fitted with opal diffusers to help eliminate any glare and prevent any distraction.

“Roads Service is currently not aware of any traffic safety issue but will investigate the situation immediately and take any appropriate action as necessary,” the spokesperson said.