Hazzard announces new pedestrian crossing for Hilltown, Co Down

Infrastructure Minister Chris Hazzard has confirmed that a new pedestrian crossing (Puffin) has been identified for Hilltown, Co Down.

Chris Hazzard said:

“I am confident that a new puffin crossing in Hilltown is welcome news for the community and visitors alike. Puffin crossings are a relatively new type of controlled pedestrian crossing in the north and are much more user friendly than the traditional Pelican crossing.

“The proposed crossing will be located close to the junction with the Rathfriland Road and will improve road safety for pedestrians, particularly vulnerable road users such as children, the elderly and people with disabilities.  With some 8,000 vehicles passing through Hilltown daily, the introduction of a Puffin crossing will help to balance the safety of pedestrians with the progression of vehicles through the town.”

The decision to provide a Puffin Crossing is based upon criteria relating to the number of pedestrians crossing the road and the volume of vehicles using it. This is to ensure that a crossing is located where there is the greatest demand.

The Minister continued:

“Discussions are ongoing with NIE to arrange a power supply before the design can be finalised. Traffic engineers are engaging with council to ensure the new poles for the traffic lights do not impede access for pedestrians using the footway; when these matters are resolved, I expect delivery later this year.” 

Notes to editors: 

1. Puffins crossings are relatively new in Northern Ireland. Puffin crossings are a new type of controlled pedestrian crossing that differs from the traditional Pelican crossings by having:

• Red / green man crossing indication located in the push button beside the pedestrian rather than on the opposite carriageway
• On-crossing detectors that can extend the crossing period for slower moving pedestrians and vulnerable road users
• Kerb-side detection that can cancel the demand for a crossing period should the pedestrian move off the footpath to cross in a gap in traffic, thereby reducing vehicle delays due to crossing periods that are not required
• No flashing amber signal to drivers – they are held on a steady red signal until the crossing time has elapsed

2. All media queries should be directed to the Department for Infrastructure Press Office on 028 9054 0007 or e-mail: press.office@infrastructure-ni.gov.uk. Out of hours please contact the duty press officer via pager number 07623 974 383 and your call will be returned.  
3. Follow the Department on Twitter @deptinfra

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