Council gets update on infrastructure projects for Derry City and Strabane District - November 2017

Date published: 21 November 2017

Speaking as he addressed council members, Network Development Manager for Western Division, Harry Gallagher said:

“Work on major roads schemes across the division are progressing well. The A6 dualling scheme from Randalstown to Castledawson continues apace with the Randalstown to Toome section on schedule to be open in mid 2019 and works on the Dungiven to Drumahoe section expected to commence in spring 2018. The Departmental Statement on the A5 scheme is also due to be published around the end of November.

“Good progress has also been made on the maintenance programme in the District and some of the schemes completed include the Lifford Road in Strabane and the Rossdowney Road in the city along with surface dressing on the Mullenan Road.

“We are continuing to work through our network development programme also and have completed a number of schemes including carriageway improvements at Lisnaragh Road near Plumbridge,and the formal consultation for the Rossville Street Residents’ Parking Scheme is due to begin in early 2018.”

At the meeting Mr Gallagher was also able to advise Council that additional funding of £3.5 million was obtained following the August 2017 floods. This funding has assisted in reopening the affected roads, repairing damaged infrastructure and resurfacing the roads once the drainage systems have been restored.

Of the 650 bridges in the area affected by the recent floods, 64 have sustained serious flood damage including Ballynameen Bridge in Claudy and Glenrandal Bridge near Park which was completely destroyed. A temporary footbridge at Claudy has recently been placed to provide pedestrian access and to carry utility services while the permanent repair is being developed.

On the issue of the Department’s budget, Mr Gallagher continued:

“Despite a challenging budgetary situation, the Department has delivered a significant programme of resurfacing and surface dressing and continues to carry out a programme of routine maintenance, including pothole repairs and street lighting repairs to meet all essential public safety requirements.”

In relation to winter gritting services, Mr Gallagher concluded:

“The Department is planning to deliver a normal winter service, as in previous years, with all necessary staff and equipment at the ready to be deployed as and when required.”