Cunningham re-issues call for road safety measures at the “Quarry Bends”

SDLP Councillor Dónal Cunningham has re –issued his call for Roads Service to introduce new road safety measures including road strengthening and the erection of marked impact barriers on a stretch of the Magheramore Road known locally as the “Quarry bends”.
Expressing his disappointment at the Department’s response to Council which indicated that “the stretch of the road did not meet the current criteria for a “vehicle restraint system” he felt that a fuller explanation was required as to what criteria is applied.
The Department’s response continued that “A collision remedial scheme in the vicinity of the “Quarry bends” which involves the provision of additional signs and lines is currently underway at the site. The aim of the works is to improve driver awareness of the road layout and therefore to enhance safety at this location.”
The Magheramore Road (A44) is the main link road between Ballycastle and Armoy and serves as the main route from Ballycastle to Ballymena, Belfast and the Antrim Area Hospital.
Residents are concerned that this stretch of the very busy road is dangerous especially at night time and in periods of inclement weather. Part of the road is supported by a retaining wall put in place and strengthened by a neighbouring farmer. There is also evidence of damage to the road, which locals fear could cause subsidence. ”
” I will be urging Council to continue to press Roads Service for urgent action.”