Mid Ulster MP claims community faces being 'torn apart' by new A6 road

MP for Mid Ulster Francie Molloy has called on the Minister for Infrastructure to take the necessary steps to ensure minimum disruption to the Castledawson community by the new A6 dual carriageway.
Mid Ulster MP Francie Molloy.Mid Ulster MP Francie Molloy.
Mid Ulster MP Francie Molloy.

“The community on the Brough Road faces being torn apart by the construction of the new A6 road and feel that their concerns are not being listened to by the Department of Infrastructure,” said Mr Molloy.

“There has been a footbridge erected to facilitate pedestrians, however, the Department have refused to install lighting.

“There are a number of issues as a result of this.

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“Firstly, I believe it would have been possible to facilitate a road bridge for all traffic, not just pedestrians and this would have re-linked the Brough Road.

“Secondly, sufficient lighting should have been a feature of the footbridge from the outset as part of the overall project.

“We now have a steel and concrete monstrosity which is unlit and therefore a risk to the safety of those seeking to cross.

“There is no reason why this bridge cannot be lit up at night for the safety of residents who need it to access local facilities such as the nearby GAA field.

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“I have had a number of meetings on site and have now written to the Minister Nichola Mallon to step in at this late stage and provide lighting for the Brough Road community.”

The Department was asked if they would like to make a comment in relation to Mr Molloy’s claims, but did not respond.

The A6 Randalstown to Castledawson dual carriageway is due to be completed early in the new year.

The Randalstown to Toome stretch of the route - estimated to cost in the region of £189m, opened to traffic in August of last year.

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