DfI agrees on need to reduce speed on Groarty Road after site inspection

The SDLP Infrastructure spokesperson recently wrote to DfI reporting that there had been ‘at least three known collisions’ within the space of a fortnight along a stretch of the road close to its junction with the Springtown Road.

Officials have now carried out a site inspection and DfI have written to Mr. Durkan stating that ‘the need to reduce speed is noted’.

"The Department will reassess both approaches with the aim of introducing appropriate warning signs and road markings to alert the motorist to drive at appropriate speed. It may be that two warning signs on each approach are required.

“I have requested details on the three collisions you have mentioned in your email. The effect that parked vehicles have in narrowing the carriageway is also noted. The Department will aim to address the concerns you have highlighted as soon as possible,” DfI stated.

Mr. Durkan said he was pleased that DfI Roads had ‘acted promptly to address safety concerns on the Groarty Road’.

“Despite safety measures which I secured last summer, including ‘slow’ road markings and signage, this route remains a dangerous one which has culminated in multiple car accidents within a short span of time.

“Safety concerns along this road are nothing new, residents have had to put up with speeding motorists and the risk they pose, for decades. However, the increased number of cars on our roads has served to compound this issue in recent years,” said the Foyle MLA.

Mr. Durkan referred to the closure of parts of the Coshquin Road and the Whitehouse Road last month that has led to an increase in traffic on the Groarty Road.

“The recent closure of roads at Coshquin and Whitehouse have resulted in increased traffic flow here placing more people, including residents, at serious risk of harm. As such, I’m hopeful that the department will implement measures as soon as possible to improve safety for all road users.”

30mph signs on Groarty Road increase safety