Concern at speeding drivers in Newcastle

Concern at speeding drivers in Newcastle

4 December 2019

ROADS officials have been asked to prioritise a speed survey at the Larchfield Park area in Newcastle in the wake of mounting concerns expressed by residents.

South Down MP Chris Hazzard and Mournes councillor, Willie Clarke, said people who are becoming increasingly concerned at the speed of drivers through the estate, particularly in the morning.

Mr Hazzard said he has been contacted by a number of Larchfield Park residents who are increasingly worried that cars are driving too fast for a residential area.

“Residents have asked that 

something is done urgently before a young child or elderly resident is seriously injured in a collision,” he remarked.

“According to residents, the issue is most acute during the early morning school run as parents bring their children to the nearby St Mary’s Primary. Given the location of the school it is surprising that there are virtually no warning signs or traffic calming measures in the streets adjacent to it.”

Mr Hazzard confirmed that as a result of the concerns expressed to him, he has asked the Department for Infrastructure to carry out a survey of the Larchfield Park area during school -off and collection times and assess the need for potential traffic calming initiatives to help deal with this issue.

Backing the MP’s call, Cllr Clarke has urged to drivers to show more care and attention and adhere to speed limits, especially in residential areas. 

He added: “The consequences of driving carelessly through built up areas like Larchfield Park simply do not bear thinking about.”