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A major carriageway resurfacing scheme worth £635,000 has got underway on the Newry Road in Rathfriland, Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins has announced.
The scheme involves resurfacing a 1,450 metre stretch of the Newry Road, commencing at Grocers Road to its junction with Greenhill Road. Work is expected to be substantially completed by Friday 3 April, subject to weather conditions.
Minister Kimmins said the 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 Rathfriland area. "This is a substantial investment for the Rathfriland 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," she said.
To facilitate the safe delivery of the scheme, a daily road closure will be in place until Friday 20 February and from Monday 9 March to Friday 3 April. The road will be closed daily between 9.30am and 4.30pm Monday to Friday. There will also be a continuous closure commencing on Monday 23 February to Saturday 7 March to repair a verge slippage within the length of the scheme.
An alternative route will be signed with traffic being diverted via A25 Newry Road, A25 Newry Street, A25 Main Street, A25 Downpatrick Street, B0025 Hilltown Road, A25 Castlewellan Road, B25 Rathriland Road, B8 Main Street, B8 Newry Road, B8 Hilltown Road, A25 Rathriland Road, A25 Finnard Road and vice versa.
The Department has programmed the work operations and traffic management arrangements to minimise inconvenience, however road users should expect some delays and are advised to allow additional time when travelling in the vicinity of the works. Motorists are asked to comply with all temporary traffic restrictions while steps have been taken to accommodate local access.
Minister Kimmins thanked residents, local businesses and commuters for their patience while this essential infrastructure work is carried out. The Department will keep the public informed of any changes to the programme.
The substantial investment in Rathfriland's road infrastructure demonstrates the Department's ongoing commitment to improving connectivity for businesses and communities across the area.
For more information about this and other improvement schemes, visit Trafficwatchni.
