Published Thursday, 16 August 2012
Buses have been unable to get down Mount Eagles Avenue to turn. (© UTV)
People in Mount Eagles claim they are concerned about the safety of children, and have been using their cars to block off part of the Metro route.
The dispute began last month and the vehicles parked on Mount Eagles Avenue have prevented the 10D and E services from reaching the terminus.
A Translink spokesperson said the dog ran into the back wheels of the bus, and after reviewing CCTV footage they do not believe their driver was at fault.
"Many residents including elderly passengers who rely on our services are being disadvantaged by the obstructions placed along the road in Mount Eagles.
"Translink inspectors continue to monitor the area and assess if buses can operate and inform police of any blockage.
"We have done so for the last number of weeks whilst attempting to engage with residents including a recent public meeting in Mount Eagles. Residents who attended this meeting expressed an overwhelming desire for the restoration of services through the development," explained the spokesperson.
Resident Niall Cullen said the issue has gone beyond the death of the dog.
"Our quality of life and the health and safety of every child in this street in particular and not just our street, the whole estate. This is not just about the width of the roads," he explained.
Police have advised motorists not to park illegally, and warned those who do could be facing fines or prosecution.
"Obstructive parking in the area means that other road users can be faced with unnecessary dangers, creating a greater risk of harm or injury to them and potentially other road users.
"If police notice any illegal parking in the area, advice and warnings will be given to offenders to help promote community safety and reduce the number of possible casualties on our roads. If the problem persists, the use of fixed penalty notices and possible prosecution will be considered," said a PSNI spokesman.
Local SDLP councillor Brian Heading said talks are needed to resolve the situation.
"This dispute has been running on for some time now and causing serious aggravation between the two sides.
"As a long-standing supporter of dialogue as a solution to the issue, I am very pleased to hear that stakeholders will now meet for talks, chaired by an independent individual, and I hope that these prove fruitful in negotiating a mutually-acceptable solution," he added.