Residents and road users on the Monaghan Road outside Armagh have been left frustrated after the Department for Infrastructure concluded that no further safety interventions are currently justified on the busy route, despite a series of serious collisions in recent months.
In correspondence to SDLP Councillor Thomas O’Hanlon, Infrastructure minister Liz Kimmins MLA acknowledged recent incidents on the road but indicated the Department would not be introducing new traffic-calming measures or extending the 30mph speed limit at this time. The minister instead pointed to existing collision data as the basis for their decision.
Councillor O’Hanlon said the response fails to reflect local experience on the ground.
“While I welcome the Minister’s expression of sympathy following a number of deeply serious incidents, I am extremely disappointed that no meaningful or immediate safety measures are being proposed for Monaghan Road,” he said.
“Minister Liz Kimmins and her Department has concluded that no further road safety interventions are currently justified at Monaghan Road. I do not believe that reflects the reality experienced by motorists, pedestrians and residents who use this road daily.
“The Minister’s rejection will shock local residents who have long raised concerns about safety on the road.”
Councillor O’Hanlon said he recognises the Department’s reliance on historical collision statistics, but warned against what he described as a “wait until it gets worse” approach.
“Road safety policy must be preventative, not reactive. We should not have to wait for further serious injuries or fatalities before decisive action is taken, particularly when vulnerable road users are involved,” he said.
He also criticised the refusal to consider either an extension of the 30mph zone or the introduction of traffic-calming measures, even on a temporary or trial basis.
The Department has agreed to review signage, road markings and the provision of footways along sections of the road, but Cllr O’Hanlon said this did not go far enough.
“Reviews of signs and lines are not enough. Local people want to see real, visible measures that prioritise pedestrian safety and demonstrate that lessons are being learned from recent incidents.
“We don’t need more bike widening footpaths, we need to see the extension of speed limits and the extension of street lighting along this busy and dangerous stretch of road.”
He added that while he understands pressures on public finances, safety must remain the overriding priority.
“I understand budget pressures, but public safety must always come first. Communities should not feel that cost is being placed ahead of the protection of human life.”
Cllr O’Hanlon said he will continue to press the Minister and the Department for stronger intervention on Monaghan Road “until meaningful safety improvements are made for the safety of everyone, pedestrians, residents and motorists alike.”
