By Alan Healy
Concerns have been raised over the impact that the four-week closure of a busy road in Derry for maintenance work will have on traffic in the city centre.
It comes after it was announced that a lane closure will be in effect on Francis Street from William Street to Great James’s Street from Monday, July 24 to Friday, August 18.
The closures will be in effect from 8am to 6pm, to facilitate new paving work adjacent to St. Eugene’s Cathedral.
However, the Sinn Féin Foyle MLA Raymond McCartney has now raised concerns over the impact the road closure will have on traffic flow in the city.
"I have written to Transport NI Divisional headquarters in regards to the proposed road works that are due to commence within the next few weeks on the Northland Road from the junction of Great James street to the William Street roundabout,” he said.
"This road is one of the main thoroughfares in the city and any closure has the potential to cause major disruption in the traffic flow in the city.
"Furthermore, given that it is proposed that the road be closed for four weeks then this disruption needs to be mitigated properly with adequate traffic management measures and proper diversions put in place.”
He added: "It also vital that residents are fully informed of this closure and that adequate parking arrangements are put in place.
"I have asked Transport NI (Roads Service) to request information on what plans they have to mitigate for this disruption."
A spokesperson for the Department for Infrastructure (DfI) said that the works were programmed to take place during the summer period ‘in order to minimise disruption to school traffic’ and that it was not possible to carry out the work without closing the road.
“A short diversion via Creggan Street, Infirmary Road and Great James’s Street will operate,” the spokesperson said.
“It is not possible to undertake this work without the lane closure.”
“Upon completion, the work will greatly enhance the visual amenity of this historic part of the city.”
The spokesperson also apologised for any inconvenience caused as a result of the road closure.
If you have a story or want to send a photo or video to us please contact the Derry Now editorial team on 028 7129 6600 for Derry City stories Or 028 7774 3970 for County Derry stories. Or you can email gareth@derrynews.net at any time.
