UUP representative calls for ‘urgent review’ of DfI’s winter programme

THE Ulster Unionist’s new Glens representative has labelled DfI’s winter programme as “inadequate” and in need of “urgent review”.
Wesley Craig made the comments following the first cold snap of the new year which left a number of important local arterial routes impassable for motorists.
He said in one instance, an inspection of a salt box located on the Carrowreagh Road near Armoy was full of water despite assurances from one DRD representative that salt boxes had been replenished in readiness for the winter period.
Mr Craig also claims that salt boxes on both the Torr Road and Ballyvennaght Road on the outskirts of Ballycastle had not been re-filled. Furthermore, grit piles had not been left on steep inclines and troublesome areas.
“These are just two examples of how DfI’s lack of preparedness has caused headaches and avoidable disruption for motorists and residents in these particular areas,” said Mr Craig.
“The Ballinlea Road, from the Ballykenver Road junction to the Dry Arch is another matter of high importance.
“It is a main arterial route for those requiring access to The Country Medical Centre, local community nurses who need to tend rural patients, and parents leaving children to Bushvalley Primary School.
“One day last week the buses that rely on this road to transport children to and from local schools had to be cancelled.
“These are just some of the reasons why an urgent review of how resources are managed moving forward for the safety and well-being of all in rural areas must be carried out.”
He added: “As things currently stand, the way the DfI’s local winter programme is managed is simply inadequate.
“I am well aware the budgets have been significantly reduced, but there is a duty of care to the local communities and I will be in contact with DFI representatives about these matters before someone is seriously injured or killed.”

For more see this week's Ballycastle Chronicle