DfI contractors faced harassment in Dundonald when a crowd threw stones and bottles, forcing them to leave the site and delaying essential traffic signal work.
This incident happened at the junction of Upper Newtownards Road, Dunlady Road, and Robbs Road on January 21, around 8:30 PM. The contractors were trying to fix the traffic signals when the crowd formed.
Police tried to help but couldn’t disperse the crowd. The contractors had to leave for their safety, which means the work remains unfinished. Local representatives say this is causing delays at the traffic lights.
East Belfast MP Gavin Robinson expressed disappointment over the situation. He noted that the contractors were there to recut vehicle detection loops but had to stop due to the crowd’s behavior.
Councillor Sharon Skillen urged parents to talk to their children about the incident. The contractors had taken a break, hoping the crowd would leave, but more people arrived and escalated the situation.
The police patrol that witnessed the chaos couldn’t break up the crowd. The workers had no choice but to pack up and leave. Now, the repairs will have to be done during the day, causing more disruption.
The Department for Infrastructure is seeking help to prevent such incidents in the future. They hope to ensure the safety of workers and minimize delays for residents and drivers.
