Explore options to improve safety, say Ballyward residents

He met with local MLA John McCallister and UUP councillors Olive Mercer and Liz Ingram last week to discuss the concerns.

Mr Kennedy was shown the difficulties facing locals attending Ballyward Church and those trying to exit Station Road onto the main road.

He agreed that the situation was particularly dangerous and he asked Roads Service representatives to look at ways of improving signage, markings and lines.

Mr Kennedy stressed that due to the complex nature of the Station Road junction, it would not be an easy problem to solve.

“To address the concerns fully, we are looking at a major scheme here. I appreciate the fact there is an accident history here, so I think we need to explore the options.”

Councillor Olive Mercer explained that the situation is incredibly dangerous for church goers on Sunday mornings. She said the church put out warning signs every week, but she felt something more needed to be done by Roads Service.

Local MLA John McCallister agreed pointing out that the Station Road junction was particularly hazardous for road users, many using the local doctors surgery.