Urgent call for enhanced road safety measures near Diamond Primary School in Cullybackey

Parents, staff, and local representatives are sounding the alarm over dangerous road conditions near Diamond Primary School, just outside Cullybackey, Ballymena.

Colin Crawford MLA has urgently appealed to the Department for Infrastructure to address critical safety concerns, including a 60mph speed limit deemed hazardous for the school community on Dreen Road.

The school, situated in a busy area with frequent heavy vehicle traffic serving local industries, faces significant challenges during peak pickup and drop-off times.

Narrow walkways on both sides of the school compound make pedestrian access to the school gate precarious, particularly for young children and their families. The high speed limit, combined with a malfunctioning 20mph school zone sign, has heightened fears of potential accidents.

“I believe that these changes will significantly improve the safety and well-being of all school community members,” said Colin Crawford MLA, who has been in close consultation with the school’s principal and parents.

“We need the Department for Infrastructure’s support to make our roads safer for our children and community.”

Persistent Safety Issues and Community Concerns

The current 60mph speed limit near Diamond Primary School has been a longstanding concern for the local community.

Despite efforts to widen the lower section of the walkway, vehicles continue to speed past at high velocities, posing a severe risk to pupils, parents, and staff. The malfunctioning 20mph school zone sign, reported to the Department for Infrastructure last year, remains unrepaired, further exacerbating the situation.

Local police have attempted to address the issue through the “Kill your speed, Not a child” signage campaign, aimed at raising driver awareness.

However, the initiative’s impact remains under review, and parents report little improvement in driver behaviour. The combination of heavy vehicle traffic and inadequate pedestrian infrastructure has created a perilous environment for the school community.

Proposed Solutions and Calls for Action

Colin Crawford MLA is advocating for immediate action to enhance safety measures around Diamond Primary School. His primary proposal is to reduce the speed limit to 40mph from above the nearby crossroads, transitioning back to 60mph as vehicles further travel toward Cullybackey village.

This change, he argues, would provide a safer environment for children and families while balancing the needs of local traffic.

The MLA’s engagement with the school community underscores the urgency of the situation.

“The safety of our children must come first,” he emphasised. “A reduced speed limit and functioning signage are critical steps toward protecting the pupils and staff at Diamond Primary School.”

Broader Implications for School Safety in Northern Ireland

The concerns raised in Cullybackey reflect broader challenges faced by schools across Northern Ireland, particularly those located near busy roads or industrial areas.

Road safety campaigners have long advocated for consistent 20mph zones around schools, alongside improved maintenance of signage and infrastructure.

The situation at Diamond Primary School highlights the need for a coordinated approach between local councils, the Department for Infrastructure, and law enforcement to ensure child safety.

Next Steps and Community Support

Colin Crawford MLA has vowed to continue pressing the Department for Infrastructure for a resolution. He is encouraging parents, staff, and residents to share their experiences to strengthen the case for enhanced safety measures.

Community members are also urged to support local road safety initiatives and report any further issues with signage or infrastructure.