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Newry and Armagh MLA Liz Kimmins has written to Infrastructure Minister, Nichola Mallon, appealing to her to take urgent action to address the serious road safety concerns on the Crieve Road.
Speaking about the issue the local MLA said that concern about traffic speed and management had been a long running issue in the area, Ms Kimmins said “In 2018, DFI roads finally completed a traffic assessment and based on its outcome advised Sinn Féin elected representatives that the location would merit further consideration for future programmes.Two years on there has been no progress and residents have had enough”.
The MLA continued “Most recently I have been working with Crieve Court resident, Jessica Phillips, who's dog was unfortunately knocked down on the road just last week.
"Jessica and her sister Shannon subsequently decided to set up an online petition lobbying for the road to be made safer, with 525 signatures at time of going to press”.
Speaking about the issue, Jessica stated "As a resident of the Crieve Road I have witnessed on numerous occasions the dangers associated with this road. After discussing it with my family and neighbours I decided it was time to take action and created an online petition, the response to the petition in such a short time has been overwhelming.
"We were delighted when Liz got in touch with similar concerns. Why should we wait until there is a fatality on the road? It is time for the relevant authorities to step up and deliver for the people of this area."
Concluding the Newry MLA said “We hope the Minister will respond positively to our correspondence, this is a huge issue, and if she is serious about her departmental priorities on increasing active travel such as walking and cycling, then it is imperative that her department provides safe routes for the community”.
