A dispute over who is responsible for moving a bus stop, and accompanying shelter, located close to the entrance of Connswater Shopping centre has been temporarily calmed.

In January new traffic light signals were installed at the Albert Bridge Road entrance to the busy centre, but have yet to be switched on. It is not suitable under health and safety regulations to leave the bus stop in its current location as the size of the junction has increased.

Until now both Roads Service and management of Connswater Shopping Centre have been unable to reach a decision over who is responsible for moving the bus stop and shelter.

But following a meeting last week, organised by Councillor Jim Rodgers and with all those involved attending, it now seems Translink has agreed to step in, moving the bus stop only.

To fit health and safety guidelines, allowing the lights at the busy junction to be activated, the stop and shelter would have to be relocated 75 metres along the road.

Roads Service has estimated that the cost for relocating the bus stop will be £3,500.

Speaking to The CT, Councillor Rodgers said: “I am glad that Translink has agreed to move the bus stop.

“While there will be no shelter for a while, at least we will be able to get the traffic signals switched on.

“This was the main reason why I organised last week’s meeting.

“It is a dangerous area of road. With the days being shorter and the evenings getting darker it is very important that these traffic signals are put into operation to help with pedestrian safety.”

The traffic lights were erected as part of a £6million extension to Connswater Shopping Centre.

And, according to a Roads Service spokesperson: “The approved application failed to identify the bus stop and shelter within their development plans.

“When the bus shelter relocation issue is resolved the new traffic lights will be switched on.”

Councillor Rodgers also told The CT he was confident that a resolution would be complete by the end of the week.

“If the problem isn’t sorted by the end of the week then I will be arranging another meeting.

“And the debate over the shelter will definitely continue over the coming months. “

A spokesperson for Translink confirmed that Translink had agreed to move the bus stop the required distance.

When contacted Connswater Shopping Centre management declined to comment.