Urgent action demanded over ‘terrifying drop’ on Tyrone road

URGENT action is being demanded to address serious concerns about the main road between Omagh and Gortin over what’s being described as a ‘terrifying death trap’ 100 feet drop next to the route.

People living in the area and travelling along the B48 to and from Omagh on a daily basis have warned that parts of the Glenpark Road are now in a perilous condition.

The road is also widely used in the summer time by tourists who travel to Gortin and the surrounding area to enjoy the breath-taking scenery of the region.

At a number of places along the road just two miles from Gortin, there are unguarded drops plunging 100 feet into the valley below. Locals are also worried about the crumbling earthen banks which could offer little protection for vehicles.

The issue has now been raised by the Management and Directors of Rouskey Community Association. They want the section of the road transformed from one of potential danger to a responsible action to ensure a safer route.

“A crumbling earthen bank, barely clinging to the hillside, is the only barrier separating vehicles, including buses laden with children, and heavy lorries, from this potential death trap,” they said. “Recent heavy rains and floods have further eroded this bank, visibly eating away at the soil over time and making the drop even more precarious.

“This escalating instability adds to the existing safety concerns and demands immediate action from DFI Roads.”

The Rouskey group claim that neglecting proper safety measures in the area is ‘jeopardising lives’.

Its representative, John Corry, told the TyroneHerald that witnessing buses navigating this narrow point with minimal separation from the drop is a ‘nerve-wracking’ experience.

“Thousands of us bear witness to its neglected state day after day, ignoring this imminent threat is not simply reckless, it’s unconscionable,” the group adds.

“Installation of robust crash barriers at this specific point is the bare minimum required to prevent a tragedy waiting to happen.”

A spokesperson for the Department for Infrastructure (DfI) said a large-scale project to realign this section of the Glenpark Road had been identified and included in its list of potential Local Transport and Safety Measures. But its delivery will depend on future funding and its prioritisation against other similar projects.

“In the interim, consideration will be given to possible improvements to road safety at this location,” they added.