Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins has announced an investment of £400,000 to upgrade the traffic signals at junctions in Newry and Belfast. Work has started this week at the traffic lights at the Francis Street / Dominic Street Junction in Newry.
The upgraded signals will ensure pedestrian safety, road user safety and traffic progression on this main route through Newry City Centre.
Minister Kimmins said: “This substantial investment of £400,000 for Saintfield and Newry will ensure the residents and road users who travel through these junctions will continue to benefit through the significant safety benefits of these signalised junctions and it also demonstrates my commitment to improving and maintaining our road network, which is vital for connecting our businesses and communities. I would like to thank residents and commuters for their patience while this essential infrastructure work is carried out."
Minister Kimmins added "The Francis Street / Dominic Street Junction in Newry is in close proximity to the main shopping centres within the city centre and are important routes in this area."
Work on the scheme is expected to be completed by mid-November 2025, however this will be dependent on the progress of the scheme and on favourable weather conditions. The majority of the work will be carried out off peak, to minimise any inconvenience to commuter traffic.
To undertake the work safely, it will be necessary to undertake a series of single lane closures for the duration of the works from Monday to Friday between the hours of 9.30am to 4.30pm. There may be occasions when full road closures are required to complete the work but these will be arranged at quieter times to minimise disruption and the public will be notified in advance.
In order to help ensure the safety of road users and road workers the public is asked to comply with all temporary traffic restrictions and to drive with care when travelling through, or in the vicinity, of the works. While the Department has programmed most of the work to be carried out off peak, drivers should expect some delays and are advised to leave additional time when planning any journeys in the area.
For traffic information about this and other improvement schemes visit: www.trafficwatchni.com/twni


