Major investment for the district’s roads network

Resurfacing work is already underway on the B7 Rathfriland Road in Dromara, with work expected to be completed by mid March.

Similar improvement schemes will begin shortly on Dolmen Road near Leitrim, Blackskull Road at Blackskull, and sections of Lacken Road in Ballyroney and Ashgrove Avenue in Banbridge.

All the works are expected to be finished by the end of March.

Danny Kennedy said: “This is a very significant investment particularly for people living in the Banbridge area.

“The improvements will be quickly realised by all road users”.

As with all improvement schemes of this type, to help ensure the safety of road users and contractors it will be necessary to put in place diversions and closures.

“Local access will be maintained during the improvements.

Resurfacing on the B7 Rathfriland Road is being carried out in two phases with the first section, between Dromara and Drin Road, being closed and work continuing until February 24.

Traffic is diverted via Dromore Street, Dromara, Moybrick Road and Ardtannagh Road.

The second phase, between Drin Road and Finnis Road will close the B7 from February 24 until March 13, 2014.

Traffic will be diverted via Rathfriland Road, Dromore Street, Moybrick Road, Aughnaskeagh Road, Katesbridge Road, Grove Road and Slievenaboley Road.Roads Service has carefully planned the works operation and traffic management arrangements in order to minimise any inconvenience to road users, however drivers should expect some delays and are advised to leave additional time when travelling in the area.

Dates and traffic management arrangements relating to the other schemes will be notified to the public by road side signage once they are agreed with contractors.