Cllr Rodney Quigley welcomes improved safety upgrade at busy retail park crossing in Ballymena

The zebra crossing following the completion of upgrade works. (Inset) Ballymena councillor Rodney Quigley

Independent Ballymena councillor Rodney Quigley has welcomed the completion of long-awaited safety upgrades to a busy zebra crossing at Braidwater Retail Park, following a series of collisions that raised concerns within the local community.

The improvements, carried out at the crossing near Sainsbury’s garage, were completed today (Wednesday 25 March) and are aimed at making the area safer for both pedestrians and motorists.

The crossing had become a growing concern for residents, particularly those travelling on foot from nearby Harryville and Demesne, after several incidents were reported at the site.

Community concerns prompted action

Concerns were brought to local councillors by a constituent, prompting engagement with the retail park’s management to identify responsibility for the crossing and push for action.

Councillor Quigley said he was pleased to help move the issue forward and welcomed the response from those responsible for the site.

He said:

“I’m delighted to see the completion of these much-needed safety upgrades at the zebra crossing in Braidwater Retail Park.

“This has been an area of real concern for the local community, particularly for people visiting the retail park on foot, including residents from the nearby Harryville and Demesne areas.

“Along with several other councillors, I was contacted by a local constituent who highlighted the issues with this crossing. Following a couple of accidents at what was a poorly maintained site, I engaged with the retail park manager to establish responsibility for the infrastructure.

“After further discussions with the management company, I was assured that action would be taken, and I’m pleased to see those commitments delivered.

“These improvements will make a meaningful difference to safety for both pedestrians and motorists using Braidwater Retail Park.”

Visible safety improvements delivered

The upgrade works included repainting road markings, installing improved signage, repainting railings in high-visibility yellow, and adding Belisha beacons to enhance visibility—particularly during darker hours.

The measures are designed to make the crossing more noticeable and reduce the risk of further incidents in what is a busy retail area.

A safer route for the community

The completed works mark a positive outcome for residents who had raised concerns, with the crossing now significantly more visible and accessible.

For those regularly visiting Braidwater Retail Park, the upgrades are expected to provide reassurance and a safer route through one of Ballymena’s busiest shopping areas.

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At a glance

• Safety upgrades completed at zebra crossing in Braidwater Retail Park

• Works finished on Wednesday 25 March

• Improvements include new markings, signage, yellow railings, and Belisha beacons

• Upgrades follow community concerns and reported collisions

• Issue raised by a local constituent with councillors

• Independent councillor Rodney Quigley welcomed the completed works

• Crossing used frequently by residents from Harryville and Demesne

• Changes aim to improve visibility and reduce risk for pedestrians and drivers

• Seen as a positive safety step for a busy Ballymena retail area

• Expected to provide reassurance for local shoppers and visitors