Write a commentResurfacing of section of almost 780 metres of road and hard shoulder on the A28 Newry to Armagh road has started with road closures in opperation. The work is necessary to help improve the structural condition of what is the main arterial route between Armagh and Newry.
The scheme, taking place in the vicinity of Bolton Road was announced by Transport Minister Danny Kennedy.
During the works a one way road closure will be in place for traffic travelling towards Armagh from Newry and traffic diversions will be in place; access will only be available to local residents and to businesses and public buildings within the length of the closure via the diversion route.
The traffic diversion is from Newry via the A27 Tandragee Road through Poyntzpass into Tandragee and on to Markethill. Diversion signs will be in place and the public are asked to allow additional time for their journeys during these works.
Road users are advised to obey road and lane closures and direction signs at all times and to cooperate with site personnel in the interests of safety whilst these improvement works are being carried out.
Whilst the Department’s resource budget for activities such as routine maintenance is severely reduced, funding for this scheme is from the capital budget for major projects and new road schemes which is less affected by the current pressures
Danny Kennedy said: “This £250,000 scheme represents a significant investment in the roads infrastructure within the area and on completion, road users will quickly realise the long term benefits from the new road surface on this main route linking the cities of Armagh and Newry.”
Resurfacing work and improvements are planned to take place on the A28 from Monday of this week to Wednesday the 29th of October 2014.
Speaking on the diversions, Inspector Kieran Quinn, Armagh Neighbourhood and Response explained: "The A28 Gosford Road will be closed to Armagh bound traffic between Newry and Markethill from Thursday 16th October to Wednesday 29th October. Diversions are in place and clearly signed. Armagh bound traffic will be diverted at Newry, from the A28 Armagh Road Roundabout along the A27 Tandragee Road, Poyntzpass Road, Scarva Road to Tandragee and then progress along the Markethill Road, to rejoin the A28 close to Markethill.
"A 30mph temporary speed limit and prohibition of overtaking has been put in place for Newry bound traffic on a stretch of the A28.
"These road works are scheduled to last for almost two weeks and they are expected to cause some delays. I am asking motorists to be patient, drive with caution and allow extra time for your journey."
