Minister Kimmins announces £1.1 million Active Travel Scheme between Newcastle and Castlewellan
Date published:
Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins has announced that a £1.1 million pedestrian and cycling improvement scheme between Newcastle and Castlewellan is due to commence on Monday 9 November 2026.
The works extend approximately 1.7km along the A50 Castlewellan Road / Newcastle Road, between Sawmill Road and Carrigs Road, completing an improved active travel corridor for people walking, wheeling and cycling between the two towns.
Minister Kimmins said:
“This active travel scheme further demonstrates my commitment to improving infrastructure for people who choose to walk, wheel or cycle, providing an attractive route for residents and visitors travelling between Castlewellan and Newcastle.
“I would like to thank the residents and the public in advance for their cooperation and ask that they comply with all temporary traffic restrictions while these works are being completed.”
The works are expected to last approximately 25 weeks and are scheduled to be completed by summer 2027. To facilitate the works and ensure the safety of road users and construction staff, traffic management measures including lane closures and temporary traffic signals will be in place between 9:30am and 4:30pm along with temporary footway closures at various stages throughout the scheme. A temporary 40mph speed limit will also be in operation for the duration of the works.
Road users are asked to comply with all temporary traffic management and exercise caution when travelling through the works area. Whilst every effort has been made to minimise disruption, some delays can be expected, and additional journey time should be allowed.
For traffic information about this and other improvement schemes visit: Trafficwatchni.com
Notes to editors:
- All media queries should be directed to the Department for Infrastructure Press Office.
- The Executive Information Service operates an out of hours service for media enquiries only between 1800hrs and 0800hrs Monday to Friday and at weekends and public holidays. The duty press officer can be contacted on 028 9037 8110.
- Follow the Department on social media: X, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and Bluesky.