Frustration over lack of progress on footpath at tragic Castledawson roadside spot

FRUSTRATION has been expressed over the lack of progress regarding the provision of a path and bus shelter on the Hillhead Road, outside Castledawson, 18 months on from the tragic death of 11-year-old Caitlin-Rose McMullan, who was hit by a car at that location.

At the October 13 Environment Committee meeting of Mid Ulster District Council, committee members were briefed on progress – or lack of in some cases – in relation to applications for bus shelters.

The relevant agenda item explained that the council is discussing funding options with DfI towards the potential installation of a footpath on the Hillhead Road, between Broagh Road and Creagh Road.

Denise Johnston, SDLP representative for Moyola DEA, commented: “It just seems that we’re still at the stage where we are discussing funding with DfI to create this path. We were initially told that we couldn’t build the bus shelter without the path.

“Then I was off for a while. I came back and we were told, we’ll let you build the bus shelter without the path, and the path would come later. Now we’re being told that no, you can’t do that.

“Meanwhile, another school term has started and these kids are standing on a grass verge at a gate getting the bus every morning. It just seems absolutely ridiculous.

“I know where DfI are coming from because they’re saying that if they put the bus shelter in place with no path, they become liable. But it’s really terrible that this is based on liability, and these kids just have to stand along the road edge.

“That road is 50mph and, as I keep saying, we’ve already had a tragedy on that road.

“So, I suppose I’m just saying how frustrated I am with this. I’m just pressing a bit harder here with DfI for some funding for this path, so that bus shelter can be put up.”

Meanwhile, committee members were informed that a request for a bus shelter at Main Street, Coagh, has been turned down as two surveyed residents have indicated that they are opposed to such provision, while only one resident responded in favour.

Council deputy chairperson, Eva Cahoon (DUP, Cookstown DEA), asked: “[In relation to] the application for Main Street, Coagh. Is it possible to defer that decision?

“I know the reasons outlined, but I believe that since the initial site was looked at, there have been some changes around the Hanover area [in Coagh] that could be explored further before rejecting the application, [as rejecting it would mean] the applicants would have to start from scratch again.”

Councillor Cahoon’s proposal was seconded by Councillor Mark Robinson (DUP, Clogher Valley DEA).

Plans for a bus shelter on the Ballyness Road, Clogher, are being progressed. Legal owner consent and DfI approval are required prior to the request being sent to Property Services for installation.

A bus shelter at Main Street, Castlecaulfield, is also recommended to be installed, on the basis of a survey.

On the Pomeroy Road, Donaghmore, a new location for a bus shelter has been identified, and Mid Ulster District Council is currently engaging with a nearby school.

On the Mullinahoe Road, Ardboe, discussions are ongoing with a landowner.

On the Stiloga Road, Eglish, DfI are due to construct a footpath linkage before a bus shelter can be provided.

Bus shelter requests are also being progressed at Church Street/Dunleath Avenue, Cookstown; Moore Street, Aughnacloy; and Minterburn Road, Caledon.