Politicians want plan for transport in Castlewellan

Politicians want plan for transport in Castlewellan

8 September 2021

THE need for an urgent transport plan to be devised for Castlewellan town centre has been highlighted by Slieve Croob councillors Roísín Howell and Cathy Mason.

The politicians have this week highlighted the issue as the town experiences what has been described as a “huge increase” in the volume of traffic due to visitors and popular hospitality venues.

Cllr Howell said a number of new businesses have opened and that with the growth of the town’s St Malachy’s High School and the establishment of the new Knockevin Special School, there are more travelling from outside areas into the town to attend school daily. 

This is resulting in major congestion at both off and pick up times with traffic often coming to a standstill as there are no effective traffic control measures in place,” she revealed.

“Cllr Mason and I have written to the area’s divisional roads manager requesting that a full review of the town be conducted to assess the need for an integrated transport system.”

Cllr Howell said people in Castlewellan “deserve an effective and successful transport system” that’s fit for purpose and and one that serves the community’s needs.

Cllr Mason said there has been a significant rise in active travel with many more people taking advantage of the beautiful outdoor spaces around them, including Castlewellan Forest Park which attracts thousands of visitors.

She continued: “The recently announced funding of £2.69m from the National Lottery Fund to invest in the park, will only ensure that we see a further increase in tourists to this spot and will be hugely beneficial for local businesses and traders.

“However, to support this growth we must ensure that Castlewellan has sustainable transport infrastructure with fit-for-purpose traffic control measures to alleviate congestion, allowing residents and tourists to safely travel and enjoy what the town has to offer.”