To ask the Minister for Infrastructure for an update on the installation of a pedestrian crossing outside Assumption Grammar School, Ballynahinch. [R]

Requests for Controlled Crossing facilities are assessed in accordance with the Department's policy RSPPG E005 (Controlled Crossings: Assessment Procedures).

My officials undertook a pedestrian survey on Belfast Road, Ballynahinch, in March 2026. Based on the outcome of that assessment, the location met the Department's criteria for consideration of a controlled pedestrian crossing and has been added to the list of potential schemes.

While the location has met the assessment criteria, identifying a suitable position for a controlled crossing remains challenging. This section of Belfast Road contains a significant number of private accesses and a junction, together with on-street parking activity, all of which restrict the availability of locations that can safely accommodate a crossing while complying with current road safety and accessibility standards. In addition, pedestrian desire lines along this corridor do not necessarily align with those locations where a crossing could most readily be provided, and these factors require careful consideration as part of the design process.

My officials will therefore undertake further site assessments and engineering investigations during the detailed design stage to identify whether a safe and practical crossing location can be achieved. This work will also take account of any future development proposals in the area that may influence pedestrian movements, traffic patterns and the most appropriate location for crossing facilities.

In the meantime, officials have assessed the existing signs and road markings in the vicinity of the school and will replace the existing School Warning signs on both approaches to the school and refresh the associated road markings.