The route of pedestrians in Ballabeg is to become far safer with new traffic calming measures and crossing if new proposals work.The measures were discussed recently by Arbory Commissioners and representatives of the Department of Infrastructure.

The safety of pedestrians - particularly at school opening and closing times - has been of concern for several years. In the past, the local authority has expressed its frustration at a lack of progress in resolving the issue.

The plans - to be completed next summer - will include safer crossing points for pedestrians at Friary Park and the parish hall.

Commissioners’ chairman Jane Glover explained that there had been ongoing issues concerning the Friary Park entrance, particularly the difficulty for younger and older pedestrians crossing the road at the junction.

Mrs Glover said: ’While we recognise that the proposed new scheme may not significantly increase the use of the junction by pedestrians, and so reduce the congestion outside Arbory School at pick up and drop off times, the Commissioners fully appreciate that the junction is not an easy or safe place for pedestrians to cross.’

The commissioners agreed to support the scheme, an improvement on previous proposals, provided that there is no adverse impact in relation to drainage and they will also look to improve the street lighting at the junction. The safety features also include build out works and a crossing point by the parish hall. The commissioners hope that the new safety features will encourage more parents to walk with their children to and from school

Mrs Glover continued: ’We thank the department for the speed and efficiency with which they deal with most of our queries. We have a positive working relationship now between the DoI and the commissioners and look forward to continuing to play our part in maintaining the parish’s infrastructure. The government’s "Report a Problem" app is very effective in getting problems fixed, but I would also like to thank ratepayers who contact the commissioners about highways issues as we have been largely successful working with DoI in getting problems fixed.’

Director of Highways Services, Jeff Robinson, explained: ’Designing roads that are both convenient for motorists and safe for pedestrians is not an easy task, but we are always keen to work with local communities to make improvements where practicable. Discussions with the Commissioners, local parents and the department have been on going now for a few years, so we are pleased that the scheme will be progressed next summer, giving safer pedestrian access throughout Ballabeg.’

Other matters discussed included the speed of traffic through Ballabeg and Colby, the possibility of making the Cronk y Thatcher and Cronk Cullyn estates a speed restricted Home Zone, and requests that the remaining unimproved parts of the pavement between Colby and Arbory School be brought up to standard. The commissioners are also considering increasing the use of ’Smiley SID’ speed warning signs, to encourage motorists to drive more responsibly within the parish.

For further details see Arbory http://www.arbory.org/document-category/minutes/ and clicking on the November minutes.