SDLP Killultagh Councillor Pat Catney has called for the introduction of further traffic calming measures outside local schools, St Patricks Academy and St Aloysius Primary School in Lisburn.

Cllr Catney said: "I have been contacted by parents and staff who are concerned about the safety of their children going to and coming from school, due to the level and speed of the traffic along the Ballinderry Road. “The schools have been proactive in reminding parents about parking around the school and keeping the area safe. Children and young people are the most vulnerable, especially when travelling to and from places of education.

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"Whilst I welcome the recent work by the Road Service on resurfacing outside the school, I believe what is needed is the re-introduction of all the road markings. Drivers are misusing the bus lane outside the school to speed along the road. As drivers, we must take responsibility for the safety of those pedestrians and other drivers on the road.

"A Private Members Bill from my SDLP colleague Pat Ramsey MLA will urge the Assembly to work towards 20mph being the norm in all built-up areas. This will have a direct impact on areas around schools. It is paramount that children, in particular, feel safe when walking to and from school.

"I will be contacting Roads Service to seek clarification if road markings will be put back on the road, and I will be asking them re-evaluate the current traffic safety system around the schools."

(CD)