Mallon announces PUFFIN pedestrian crossing for Lower Ormeau Road, Belfast

Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon has announced plans for a new pedestrian PUFFIN crossing on the Lower Ormeau Road in Belfast.

Works on the £40,000 scheme will commence this financial year, subject to contactor availability.

Minister Mallon said:

“I am committed to ensuring our infrastructure is inclusive for all our citizens and I am pleased to announce that my Department will be delivering a new PUFFIN crossing on the Lower Ormeau Road.

“The crossing, which will be located near Farnham Street will improve road safety for pedestrians and in particular vulnerable road users such as children, the elderly, those who are visually impaired and those with a disability.

“This is a busy thoroughfare and also a thriving area popular with locals, visitors and students.  With many residential properties and businesses running along its length the introduction of a PUFFIN crossing at this location will help everyone to access their homes, local shops and services safely.

“The crossing will also improve active travel opportunities in the area, providing safer access to those wishing to walk, wheel or cycle along the Lagan Towpath.  

“I am confident that the new crossing will be welcome news for the community and visitors alike.”

Notes to editors: 

1. The decision to provide PUFFIN Crossings 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 crossings are located where there is the greatest demand.
2. PUFFIN stands for Pedestrian User Friendly Intelligent Crossing. The major differences between PUFFINS and Pelicans are that PUFFINS have the red/green man on the push button unit beside the pedestrian; there is no flashing amber signal to drivers – they are held on a red signal until pedestrians have completed their crossing and the time for pedestrians to cross the road can be extended by sensors which detect people still on the crossing.
3. Drivers also benefit from PUFFINS when a pedestrian pushes the push button and then moves away, the demand for the green man is cancelled so drivers do not experience an unnecessary delay.
4.  All media queries should be directed to the Department for Infrastructure Press Office at: press.office@infrastructure-ni.gov.uk.
5. The Executive Information Service operates an out of hours service for media enquiries between 1800hrs and 0800hrs Monday to Friday and at weekends and public holidays. The duty press officer can be contacted on 028 9037 8110.
6. Follow the Department on Twitter @deptinfra and on Facebook @DepartmentforInfrastructure

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