SDLP Councillor Thomas O’Hanlon expressed disappointment after Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins declined to introduce new safety measures on Monaghan Road outside Armagh.

The minister responded to O’Hanlon's request by stating that recent incidents on the road did not justify further interventions such as traffic-calming measures or extending the 30mph speed limit. She based the decision on existing collision data.

O’Hanlon argued that the decision does not match the daily experiences of motorists, pedestrians, and residents. He called for preventative action rather than waiting for more injuries or fatalities, especially involving vulnerable road users.

The Department for Infrastructure agreed to review signage, road markings, and footway provision along parts of the road. O’Hanlon stated that these steps fall short of what locals need, including speed limit extensions and additional street lighting.

O’Hanlon recognised budget constraints but insisted that public safety must take priority. He plans to keep pressing the minister and department for improvements benefiting pedestrians, residents, and motorists.