Northern Ireland

Kennedy Way: U-turns could be banned at busy west Belfast junction

The new traffic light system at the former Kennedy Way roundabout. Picture by Mal McCann
The new traffic light system at the former Kennedy Way roundabout. Picture by Mal McCann The new traffic light system at the former Kennedy Way roundabout. Picture by Mal McCann

U-TURNS at a busy west Belfast junction may be banned under Department for Infrastructure plans.

The department has launched a consultation on stopping vehicles making the manoeuvre at the junction between Kennedy Way and the Andersonstown Road.

Traffic lights were installed at the former Kennedy Way roundabout on August 28 as part of the Belfast Rapid Transit project.

However, the lights prompted some commuters to complain about heavy congestion along the route.

And despite the roundabout being removed, it appears that some motorists are still using the junction to make u-turns.

Shortly after the lights were installed, the Department for Infrastructure said it would continue to monitor the junction.

"The department is grateful for the patience of those who use the junction and would ask drivers to take extra care until they are familiar with the new layout," a spokesman said.

The consultation to ban u-turns will run until November 17.

For more information see www.infrastructure-ni.gov.uk.