Kimmins visits Maghera and Aughnacloy to discuss roads and traffic issues

Date published: 30 July 2025

In Maghera the Minister had the opportunity to view work on the recently commenced £635,000 resurfacing scheme. Following this she visited Aughnacloy to hear first-hand about road safety concerns in the area.

Minister Kimmins said: 

“I was pleased to visit Maghera and Aughnacloy today.  As Minister it is important to be on the ground meeting people and to listen to views from those who know the area best. 

“I recently announced investment of £635,000 for a road improvement scheme in Maghera town centre.  I am aware that residents and businesses had been keen to see this work done so I am delighted that following the recent completion of the Public Realm works in the town, the scheme has now commenced.  When completed these works will deliver significant benefits for road users.”

Following her visit to Aughnacloy Minister Kimmins said: 

“Road safety is a high priority for my Department and I am committed to working proactively to make our roads safer and to address the needs of all road users.  I am aware that road safety is a concern for people in Aughnacloy.  I had the opportunity to receive representations about the concerns of residents and experience at first hand some of the daily challenges they face in terms of road safety and traffic volumes.

“My officials continue to monitor road user safety in Aughnacloy and have discussed concerns raised about speeding on Monaghan Road with the PSNI.  We have commissioned a traffic and speed survey to gather data on this issue.

“I can also confirm that my officials are assessing the potential introduction of a pedestrian crossing near Aghaloo Community Centre and the local pharmacy on Main Street.  A design is now being prepared to determine if a crossing at this location satisfies the required safety and engineering standards.  My department will engage with stakeholders ahead of the potential introduction of any new measures.

“Many of the traffic issues in Aughnacloy, particularly the high volumes of HGV traffic, would be resolved with the new A5 road.  I want to reassure everyone that I remain committed to delivering the A5 upgrade and my Department is working intensively with our legal team to consider an appeal and a range of other options that can deal with the recent court judgement.

“I am determined that this road will be built and it is important that everyone who wants to see this happen works together in a constructive way to achieve that goal. We owe it to the people who have sadly lost their lives on this road.”