Speed limits to be cut amid safety concerns

The Roddens is currently split into two separate zones, with speed limits of 30mph and 40mph in operation, while Greenland Road has a 40mph speed limit.

TransportNI is now preparing legislation to extend the 30mph speed limit on the Roddens to the Upper Cairncastle Road and also to reduce the Greenland Road speed limit to 30mph.

In February, the Times reported a local resident’s call for a reduced speed limit along the route in order to protect schoolchildrens’ safety, after a car mounted the pavement and crashed into a hedge.

A Transport NI spokesperson stated that legislation is “currently being processed” and the new speed limits are expected to come into force this summer.

“The extension of the 30mph speed limit on the Roddens (to Upper Cairncastle Road) and the reduction of the existing 40mph limit on Greenland Road to 30mph, is part of a larger traffic management scheme to improve safety at the Greenland Road junction,” she said.

“The scheme was implemented to improve safety for all road users following a number of road traffic collisions where ‘excessive speed’ was cited as a contributory factor.

“The scheme included a review of the existing traffic signs and road markings, as well as the amendment to the speed limit, and has the full support of the Mid and East Antrim Council and PSNI as well as local elected representatives and residents. The legislation for the amendment to the speed limit is currently being processed.”

Sitting East Antrim DUP MLA Gordon Lyons, who had contacted Transport NI to call for the speed reduction, said he was “delighted” with the move, and noted that the new lower speed limit would cover the entrance to Larne High School.

“This will be welcomed by local residents and by parents of children at the local schools and I am pleased that common sense has prevailed,” he stated.

“I believe that as a result of the action taken by TransportNI this road will be safer and the risk of further accidents lowered.”