Maghera’s famous yellow box removed

A yellow box junction in Maghera which was previously known as the biggest in the UK and Ireland has been removed. 

The junction first appeared in June and was later reduced in size in July. The box has been removed for now but is said to return to the County Derry town in the Autumn. 

The box was 40m long and caused outrage and confusion among locals. 

Local councillor Denise Johnston told the County Derry Post she is “concerned about the decision making of DfI.” 

“While the Yellow box saga has certainly put Maghera on the map and created a lot of interest there is a very serious side to it,” Cllr Johnston said.

“I am concerned about the decision making processes at DfI.  If it was deemed necessary for public safety to put in place a 40m yellow box, what changed one month later that made them reduce it by half? Only then to completely remove it a month later for scheduled resurfacing!”

She continued: “I’m also concerned at the inefficient use of public money at a time when DfI are experiencing both financial and workforce difficulties. 

“The standard response I get from DfI is ‘we are operating with 50% of the recommended workforce’ and our budgets are either unknown or completely utilised. Then we witness this complete waste of money. 

“There appears to be a culture of mistakes at DfI be it the lack of foresight in relation to dual language signage at Central Station costing the public purse £150,000 or the ill thought out application for the A5 that will cost tax payers tens of thousand but more worryingly will also cost lives. 

“This may well carry a smaller cost but I’ve lots of little projects in and around the area that would only take a small amount but I am being told the department doesn’t have the money. It’s very frustrating to say the least.”

A spokesperson for DfI said: "The Department implemented the yellow box markings at this location to assist with the ease of Translink bus movements to and from the main bus stop on St Lurachs Road. “The extent of the markings was reviewed following initial installation and subsequently reduced in length to improve traffic flow. 

“The yellow box marking will be reinstated upon completion of the resurfacing on Hall Street. Contract rates are commercially sensitive therefore costs cannot be released."