BLACKSPOT… New signs for Ballinamallard hve been erected at the busy junction on the Mossfield Road
THE Mossfield Road, a notorious accident hotspot in the county, is to be made safer with increased signage at one of its junctions.
Within the next eight to 10 weeks work will start on a new directional sign on the A32 Enniskillen to Irvinestown Road highlighting the turn off for Ballinamallard.
The issue was originally highlighted by UUP councillor Raymond Farrell, who told the Herald of the ‘significant volume of contact’ he had received from people regarding the junction.
“People have expressed concern about the vision aspect as you approach it, particularly from the Enniskillen side and indicating to approach Ballinamallard.
“My own thinking is that improved lighting and signage are needed to improve the safety and awareness concerning this junction as I would be concerned about a potential accident particularly at night.”
Mr Farrell contacted Roads Service about the issue and received a mixed response.
“He was first delighted to learn that an additional direction sign on the right hand side of the A32 at the left hand side of the Mossfield junction bell mouth would be added.
“This sign will direct motorists clearly to the exit point from A32 to Ballinamallard and it is anticipated that it will be erected within the next eight to 10 weeks.”
There was disappointment though as the councillor’s request for improved lighting was refused.
In a letter from a Roads Service representative replied to Mr Farrell: ‘Since Mossfield junction is rural, street lighting will generally not be provided unless:-
• There is a reasonable level of development in the area or
• Its installation should contribute to the reduction in after dark accidents when there are no other alternative measures.
When these criteria are applied to this junction there is no justification for the provision of street lighting.’
Despite his request for better lighting being refused, Raymond is hopeful this new signage will go some way to tackling the issue of deaths on our roads.
“I am disappointed that Roads Service do not support the case for improved lighting but they have agreed to improve signage.
“I will certainly be monitoring this to see if it makes a difference for motorists as I do not want to be told of a serious accident at this particular junction.”
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