Cllr Haughey said, "The postponement of the A5 roads project has left additional funds available for smaller roads projects and I believe this is the perfect opportunity for the Roads Minister to take action to improve safety in the Ballymacnab area.
"There are two important community facilities along the main Armagh to Newtownhamilton Road, which is a key cross border route. These community facilities are well used by local people and require safety measures.
"I have been fighting for lighting along the road side at Ballymacnab Chapel since 2005, which has been consistently rejected by the former Minister of Roads. I now ask Minister Kennedy to show leadership and erect modest lighting along this stretch of road.
"Local people know only too well the safety concerns at this location, especially for evening time masses. The area is extremely dark and with cars parked along both sides of the road, mass goers walking to the chapel, a dangerous junction towards Foley and the high speed of traffic compound the risks at this location.
"A few roadside lights would help to greatly improve safety at this location, providing better visibility for all road users. All I'm asking for is lights similar to those at Lisnadill Church which is on the same road."
"The second area of concern along this stretch of road is at O'Toole's Bar and Restaurant. This venue receives exceptional high number of visitors and the owners have done a lot of work in ensuring safety at this location including safe car parking. However I feel a few roadside lights would help to improve safety at night time at this location. Lighting would help alert drivers to slow down and be careful, while it would also help pedestrians remain safe on route home.
"I have also asked Road Service to improve safety signage at both locations to help warn drivers of possible dangers from pedestrians."
"I hope that Road Service and the Minister will look at this request favourable and agree with the need to improve safety.
ENDS