Maghera’s famous yellow box makes a return…but this time smaller

A yellow box junction in Maghera which was previously known as the biggest in the UK and Ireland has been returned but significantly reduced in size. 

The junction first appeared in June and was later reduced in size in July. The box was removed in August but has since once again made a return to the town. 

The box was 40m long when it first showed up in the village. This caused  outrage and confusion among locals. 

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

Speaking on the return of the box Denise said “We knew it would return as it is necessary but again it just begs the question why did we go through the ridiculous pantomime of placing it, reducing it, removing it and then replacing it. I am awaiting a response from DfI in relation to this apparent waste of public money.” 

At the time of the removal of the yellow box in August 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."