Third survey for Derriaghy Road

The news has been welcomed by Lagan Valley DUP MLA Paul Givan who said he was delighted that Roads Service would re-assess the Derriaghy Road near Linen Green for a potential pedestrian crossing.

Mr Givan, who has been contacted by a number of constituents raising particular concerns about this area has received written confirmation of a new traffic survey to take place.

One mother of three had contacted the Ulster Star, claiming that the road was like a racing track and that she was finding it increasingly more difficult to cross the road each morning whilst doing the school run.

She said that it was really bad while road works were being carried out and feared that someone was going to get killed if something is not done soon. “I often walk to the nearby school with another mother and we have six young children,” said the woman. “it is a nightmare to cross the road during the school runs.

“I had to walk round the roadworks with the pram on the busy road. We were just lucky we were not knocked down.”

Mr Givan said, “I welcome the consideration of my recent request by Roads Service to grant an additional traffic survey at this busy section of Derriaghy Road.

“Previously two surveys have taken place and while the many criteria were met, unfortunately it was not deemed by Roads Service to be a high enough priority.

“With the onset of another school year and more and more children living in the area the importance of a crossing is clear.

“The Derriaghy Road is one of the busiest routes around Lisburn during peak periods when many children and parents are attempting to cross outside Linen Green.

“The fact that Roads Service have agreed to conduct another survey suggests there is a broad agreement that the location is one that is becoming more used by drivers and pedestrians.

“The proximity to a large primary school and a local garage also demonstrate that Linen Green is placed within walking distance of local amenities and therefore would encourage residents to travel by foot rather than by car.

“It is my understanding that the traffic survey has recently taken place at this location and when the survey is completed and the results known I will seek a meeting with Roads Service to discuss a way forward.”

DRD spokeswoman said: “DRD is committed to carrying out a further survey of the location for consideration of a controlled crossing.

“As soon as the results of the survey are known, we will keep Mr Givan updated who is aware of the current position.”