Derry road sign to be moved after blunder
By Gareth Cross
A new road sign blocking a footpath in Derry is set to be moved after the blunder was reported to a government department.
The Department of Infrastructure (DfI) have said it will now move the 'Give Way' sign on the Springtown Road.
There were appeals for common sense to prevail after the sign was erected blocking a footpath.
Speaking to the Derry News, SDLP Foyle MLA Mark H Durkan said that the sign meant wheelchair users and parents with prams could not use the path.
"It's absolutely daft, the area is a busy one used by lots of people every day," he said.
"We hear all the time from about how they can't afford to put up new signs due to budget cuts and when they do they go and put it somewhere it will have to be moved.
"It is now going to cost even more money to move the sign.”
Mr Durkan said little planning was put into the placement of the sign.
"It shows a lack of regard for pedestrians, wheelchair users or people with prams,” he said.
"The issue was actually brought to my attention by someone who couldn't get past with their buggy.
"I'm hoping the Department of Infrastructure will take action, there is a lamppost located right across the street it could be placed on.
"The sign was put up with no thought whatsoever."
The Foyle MLA said the sign could also be putting people's safety at risk.
"There are a number of schools situated near this area and many people use this footpath to walk to school," Mr Durkan said.
"It's an issue of road safety, people are being forced to walk in the road due to this sign.
"It will only get more dangerous now we are entering the winter period with dark nights and lower visibility for drivers."
In a statement issued to the Derry News yesterday, a Department for Infrastructure (DfI) spokesperson said they would take action to move the sign,
“DfI has been made aware that a sign is restricting pedestrian movement on the footpath at Springtown Road," said the spokesperson.
"This sign will be relocated as soon as possible.”