Hazzard confirms Christmas roadworks embargo and public transport incentives in Derry City and Strabane district council

Date published: 21 November 2016

The embargo will run from 28 November 2016 to 3 January 2017

Minister Hazzard said:

“As towns and cities across the north prepare for the busy Christmas period, I am keen to do what I can to support local businesses and assist shoppers. The recent changes in the exchange rate means we will have more people coming North to shop and it is vital that traffic flow around the commercial centres is maintained during rush hour over the Christmas shopping period.

“The roadworks embargo has been ongoing for number of years and I am grateful to all the utilities involved for their continued support with this highly successful initiative. It is a real example of an integrated approach which will help to improve journey times and increase the use of public transport which is a key outcome in the draft Programme for Government and is good news for our environment and economy and will deliver real benefits for all.”

The Minister also welcomed a number of public transport fare reductions for the areas. Minister Hazzard said;

“Our public transport network plays a key part in ensuring disruption is kept to a minimum. Jointly, my Department and Translink have developed a range of public transport fare reductions to help traffic flows at this busy time of the year.”

Translink Group Chief Executive Chris Conway said: “We want to encourage more people to enjoy the convenience of public transport whether it’s for shopping, socialising or just soaking up the special atmosphere at this busy time of year. With more special fare offers available this year, this is a great opportunity for people who don’t normally use public transport to give it a go and experience the benefits for themselves.”

Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District, Alderman Hilary McClintock, welcomed the announcement. “I am delighted that the Minister has taken action to ensure that our shops and businesses remain accessible to all over the Christmas period. These are challenging economic times and shops already face a huge amount of competition from online traders.

“Any measures which bring more shoppers into our commercial centres where they can support local business are to be welcomed.”