Major arterial work through Armagh city centre has started this week.
Transport Minister Danny Kennedy announced the £650,000 road improvement scheme for Friary Road/Newry Road today.
Work is expected to be completed before Easter.
The investment will see the existing layout at Friary Road improved to allow two lanes of traffic to enter and exit the city and will include the provision of dedicated right turn lanes.
Danny Kennedy said: “This scheme, which is being delivered with support from Armagh City and District Council, will provide very significant improvements for traffic progression and improve road safety and pedestrian facilities at this critical junction in Armagh City.
“I congratulate Fox Contracts, Omagh and Siemens on their successful bid for this contract and, weather permitting, look forward to the completion of the main carriageway works before Easter.”
Whilst the Department’s resource budget for activities such as routine maintenance is severely reduced, funding for this scheme is from the capital budget for major projects and new road schemes which is less affected by the current pressures.
To help ensure the safety of road users and pedestrians, temporary traffic management measures will be required. These include the temporary closure of the car park at Friary Road.
As with all improvements of this type drivers should expect some delays and are advised to allow additional time when travelling in the area.
For information about this and other improvement schemes across Northern Ireland visit: http://trafficwatchni.com/home