Traffic easement solution found for busy junction in Moneymore
It is anticipated that the Bridger Street/Stonard Street improvements will be delivered early in 2027
The Ulster Unionist Representative for Magherafelt DEA, Marion Haydock, has announced measures that have been agreed with Department of Infrastructure (DfI) to reduce traffic congestion at the Bridger Street/Stonard Street T Junction in Moneymore.
Mrs. Haydock said “I am delighted to report that in response to concerns raised from local people and after several weeks of lobbying, I and UUP colleagues, met DfI officials this week and we have agreed a traffic congestion easement for the T junction.
“I can report that at the meeting several options were considered including the installation of traffic lights and a roundabout. The traffic light option was discussed and discounted on safety grounds because of the steep incline onto High Street and the risks around Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) stacking up and having to stop and start when travelling up and down the hill which is especially treacherous in icy conditions. The option of a roundabout was also discounted because of the limited space at the junction which does not meet statutory or safety requirements.
“A third option to reconfigure the Bridger Street junction by introducing a 4 metre shuttle lane and 3.65 metre centre spine on the approach was agreed. This measure will introduce additional road surface to enable vehicles turning left to move into the shuttle lane, while traffic turning right will move into the centre lane. It is hoped that traffic flow will improve because of the introduction of the two lanes. There will also be a reconfiguration of road markings at the T Junction, and the Moneymore Bypass proposal will be included in the DfI/Mid Ulster Council Transportation Plan.
“The work will be included within the Contractors work schedule, and it is anticipated that the Bridger Street/Stonard Street improvements will be delivered early in 2027. I would like to thank DfI officials for progressing this quickly and for providing a solution to ease traffic congestion for the benefit of drivers and Moneymore people.”