Barr and Patton highlight speed concerns in Clough and Rathkenny

Ulster Unionist Councillor Alan Barr and party representative Sam Patton in Clough

Ulster Unionist Councillor Alan Barr and party representative Sam Patton have issued a stark warning over dangerous speeding in Clough and Rathkenny, saying it is only a matter of time before a serious injury or fatality occurs unless urgent action is taken.

The issue emerged while the pair were leafleting in the area, where residents expressed frustration and fear over vehicles travelling at excessive speeds.

Particular concern centres on stretches outside Clough Primary School, Clough Play Park, and the Drumnagrove Road at Riverlea — areas frequently used by children and families.

“Children walk these routes. Families cross these roads. Residents reverse from driveways into live traffic,” said Barr and Patton. “Yet some motorists continue to treat these roads as if they were racetracks.”

They stressed that speed limits exist for safety, not suggestion.

“A vehicle travelling even 10 mph over the limit dramatically increases stopping distance and reduces reaction time. In built-up and rural areas alike, drivers must expect the unexpected — a child stepping out, a car pulling from a driveway, a pedestrian crossing, or a tractor coming onto the road,” the councillors said.

The Ulster Unionist representatives highlighted how wide, straight road sections can create a false sense of safety, encouraging drivers to accelerate — a combination that significantly raises the risk of accidents.

To improve safety, Barr and Patton are calling for:

• Increased anti-speeding enforcement by the PSNI

• A review of existing traffic-calming measures by the Department for Infrastructure

• Installation of a Speed Indication Device outside Riverlea on the Drumnagrove Road

They welcomed the PSNI’s current enforcement efforts but insisted that sustained operations are needed.

“This is not about penalising motorists — it is about protecting lives. Fifteen people have already been killed on our roads this year. This figure is far too high. Behind every statistic is a devastated family. No one wants that dreaded knock on the door from the police to say a loved one has been killed.

“Slow down. Observe the limits. It could save a life,” they concluded.

At a glance

• Councillor Alan Barr and UUP party representative Sam Patton warn of dangerous speeding in Clough and Rathkenny.

• Key concern areas include outside Clough Primary School, Clough Play Park, and Drumnagrove Road at Riverlea.

• Children, families, and residents using driveways are at risk from speeding vehicles.

• PSNI urged to increase enforcement and call for a review of traffic-calming measures.

• Proposal includes a Speed Indication Device outside Riverlea.

• The warning highlights that speeding dramatically increases accident risk, even when only slightly above limits.

• Councillor Barr and Sam emphasise the urgent need to protect lives and prevent further road fatalities.