Councillor advocates for a reduced speed near Ballykelly

A Sinn Féin councillor has called on the Department for Infrastructure to consider reducing the speed limit on a busy road near Ballykelly.

Councillor Dermot Nicholl raised the issue of the speed limit on the Clooney Road at the last council meeting.

The local councillor wants to see the speed limit reduced from 50mph to 30mph as it is a built up area with houses and businesses on either side of the road.

Councillor Nicholl said motorists exiting housing estates are having difficulty merging onto the main road.

“If the traffic is going slower, it raises your chances of getting out. When traffic is going faster, they will just drive faster and not be as courteous," Councillor Nicholl said.

"It is more of a problem at rush hour, in the morning and the evening.”

Concerned residents have approached the councillor seeking solutions.

“People have been requesting roundabouts however that won't be a possibility.

"I have requested, for some time now, that the speed limit be reduced and I would like to see it reduced to 20mph at the former army houses.

The speed limit only changes when reaching Ballykelly village, letting a 50 limit speed in front of the Old Army houses," said Councillor Nicholl.

“The bigger picture is a bypass in Ballykelly and that is on the radar,” said Councillor Nicholl.

“Realistically however, that could be five to 10 years away.”