AQO 4108/22-27


Mr Nick Mathison
Alliance Party
Strangford


Tabled Date: 01/10/2026
Answered On Date: 13/10/2026
Priority Written: No


Question:
To ask the Minister for Infrastructure for her response to the petition submitted to the Speaker on 28 September 2026 calling for improved road safety measures in Darragh Cross.


Answer:
I recognise the strength of feeling reflected in this petition and the genuine concerns of residents in Darragh Cross about vehicle speeds, pedestrian accessibility and safety in the village. Road safety is a high priority for my Department, and I fully appreciate the importance of ensuring that local people - particularly children, older people and those with disabilities - can move around their community as safely as possible.
The Department has previously assessed both the speed limit and pedestrian crossing provision in accordance with its established, evidence-based policies. Those assessments considered the road environment, traffic conditions, prevailing speeds, pedestrian activity and PSNI collision data. On the evidence available, the current permanent speed limit was considered appropriate and the location did not meet the criteria for a controlled crossing.
However, that does not mean that residents’ concerns are being dismissed. A part-time 20mph School Safety Zone operates on all four approaches to the crossroads at school arrival and departure times, and dropped kerbs and tactile paving have been provided to improve accessibility for pedestrians.
I have asked officials to continue to monitor conditions in Darragh Cross and to consider carefully the issues raised through the petition, alongside any new evidence or representations.
Should there be a material change in traffic conditions, pedestrian activity or collision history, the Department will review the position and consider whether further measures are justified.
The Department will remain engaged on this matter and will continue to work with elected representatives, the local community and the PSNI.
You will also be aware that the response to the Speed Limit Review consultation, which was published in August, is informing the next stage of the review and the development of speed related proposals, including the lowering of speed limits on rural roads.