Council chief critical of town congestion

Council chief critical of town congestion

18 January 2012

THE failure to solve traffic congestion in two of the district’s main towns is stifling their economic growth, Down Council’s chief executive has warned.

Mr. John Dumigan said he shares the concerns of many about the failure to get to grips with congestion in Downpatrick and Ballynahinch.

He said the area’s MPs, Assembly members and Down councillors need to join forces to raise the issue with the decision-makers at Stormont.

“Down Council needs to have its voice heard on the congestion issue within the corridors of power. People at the highest level in government need to be made aware of the impact traffic congestion is having on two of our main towns,” declared Mr. Dumigan.

“Investment is needed in our roads network and it’s a case we have been arguing for many years, to date without success. But that must change.”

The council chief said town centre congestion in Downpatrick is increasing while the need for a new by-pass in Ballynahinch is more acute than ever.

Mr. Dumigan continued: “There are major plans to redevelop a huge portion of land stretching from St. Patrick’s Square to Rathkeltair House in Downpatrick. Moving forward, it’s vital we crack the congestion problem along the way.

“Ballynahinch needs a by-pass in a bid to address town centre congestion and stimulate new growth and investment. As a first step, work is to start this year on an environmental improvement scheme.”

The chief executive said a “concerted approach” is needed to address congestion in both main towns with all politicians united to have something done.

He added: “We need investment to solve the traffic problems in Downpatrick and Ballynahinch where congestion is stifling investment. Down Council needs to make its voice on this issue heard loud and clear at Stormont.”

Council chairman, Dermot Curran, has welcomed Mr. Dumigan’s suggestion that politicians must unite to lobby the decision makers on the need for action.

He said Downpatrick and Ballynahinch “suffer terribly” from traffic congestion and firmly believes that once this is addressed, it will pave the way for investment and growth.

Councillor Curran added: “Businesses in both towns are battling to survive and politicians need to do all they can to help. Tackling traffic congestion is a key part of the drive to improve their economic fortunes.

“Local Roads Service officials are keen to work with politicians to address problems in Downpatrick and this is something Down Council must vigorously pursue.”