Sinn Féin MLA Pat Sheehan has reiterated urgent calls for traffic control measures to be implemented on the Springfield Road. The West Belfast MLA said: 

“Our community has been again left devastated as another family are left heartbroken following the tragic collision which claimed the life of Lucy McIlhatton. 

“Young Eoin Hamill was knocked down and killed on this same stretch of road in January 2020. 

“The community in the Upper Springfield has campaigned relentlessly for many years for traffic control measures to be implemented on the Springfield Road, near the Mona By Pass.

“Residents regularly cross this dangerous stretch of road to access a local shop and other amenities. 

“I have worked in conjunction with local Sinn Féin Councillor Micky Donnelly, and before that Janice Austin, for a controlled crossing to be installed on the Springfield Road to slow down the speed of traffic and provide safe passage for pedestrians crossing the road. 

“Following a site visit we had organised with the Department for Infrastructure last year; the Department deemed this road to not rank high enough for action. 

“Infrastructure Minister Nicola Mallon must listen to the very real concerns of our community and take immediate action to enhance safety on the Springfield Road.

 
“Urgent action is required and our community will continue to campaign for these road traffic calming measures.”