Over the last number of years there have been back-and-forth discussions surrounding the merit of a footbridge at the entrance to Gosford Forest Park… but now one MLA who campaigned for that bridge is now also asking for “commitment” to a right hand turning lane.
Talks surrounding the introduction of the footbridge at the popular Markethill forest park have recently looked hopeful, with the visit of Infrastructure Minister Kimmins to the site to “scope out possibilities”.
There have been several serious collisions – and indeed fatalities – close to the entrance of Gosford Forest Park over the years.
Related: Minister visit to ‘scope out possibilities’ for footbridge over busy Gosford Road at Markethill
The junction is generally considered problematic, opening directly onto a high volume of fast-moving traffic along the main Gosford Road.
DUP MLA, Gareth Wilson – who has been leading the charge on the proposed footbridge – met with Minister Kimmins on her last visit to the site in April and regarded the meeting overall as “useful”.
The meeting also allowed the recently elected representative to speak with officials from both DfI and Forest Service… all very encouraging.
He promised, at that time, to continue to lobby and ensure that “momentum is created to progress this important issue”.
Further to this, the MLA has now asked Minister Kimmins whether she will commit to the installation of a right-turning lane to service the main park entrance.
Introduction of a turning lane would allow traffic coming from Newry to move into a dedicated centralised lane while awaiting a break in oncoming traffic from Armagh, in order to access the park.
Thus, negating the issue of dangerous undertaking on the hard shoulder.
Mr Wilson said Minister Kimmins had been “receptive” to the idea when they last spoke and he’s hopeful that a positive response will be forthcoming.
Updates will be published when made available.
