Write a comment
A £695,000 carriageway resurfacing scheme has been announced for the B133 Maytown Road in Bessbrook, with work due to start on Monday 1 June 2026. Making the announcement Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins confirmed that 2.2 kilometres of the road between McShane's Road and the junction of C214 Kingsmill Road will be resurfaced.
The scheme will be carried out in two phases. Phase one will involve preparatory works including drainage repairs and improvements, while resurfacing works will follow in phase two later in the year, with dates and traffic management arrangements to be confirmed closer to the time.
Minister Kimmins said: "This is a substantial investment for the Bessbrook area which will deliver significant benefits for local businesses, residents and road users. The investment demonstrates my commitment to improving our road network, which is vital for connecting our businesses and communities. This work will greatly improve the strength and surface quality of this section of the road network to the benefit of local residents, businesses and those travelling in the Bessbrook area."
To facilitate phase one safely, a daily weekday road closure will be in place from Monday, 1 June to Friday, 31 July 2026, between 08:00 and 18:00, Monday to Friday. The road will remain open during evenings and weekends. An alternative route will be signed with traffic diverted via C214 Kingsmill Road, u5104 Tullywinney Road, B134 Tullyah Road, A25 Newry Road, A25 Newtown Road, A25 Old Road, A25 Main St. A25 Camlough Road, B133 Millvale Road, B133 Maytown Road and vice versa.
Welcoming the announcement Slieve Gullion Councillor Declan Murphy said: “This is very welcome news for local residents, businesses and motorists. I want to acknowledge the efforts of everyone who lobbied for these much-needed works and thank Minister Liz Kimmins for her continued commitment to improving our local road network.
"Good infrastructure is vital for connecting our communities and supporting local businesses, particularly given the severe financial pressures facing the Department for Infrastructure as a result of continued underfunding from Westminster.”
Road users are advised to allow extra time when travelling in the area and to comply with all temporary traffic restrictions. Subject to favourable weather conditions, phase one is expected to be substantially complete by Friday, 31 July 2026.
Minister Kimmins added: "I would like to thank residents, local businesses and commuters for their patience while this essential infrastructure work is carried out."
For further information visit trafficwatchni.com.
