Ground conditions have meant timetable changes having to be made to the original programme of sewer works currently being carried in Armagh out as part of a £1.4 million NI Water investment.
Work is ongoing and NI Water had issued details of closures and other changes with plenty of advance notice.
But Sinn Fein Councillor Jackie Donnelly has said she had been informed that ‘ground conditions’ meant changes have had to be made and this might “mean some disruption”.
Some local businesses in the town say they have noticed a knock on effect on traffic and subsequently, footfall.
“NI Water have contacted myself and other elected representatives to inform us of the adjustments of the phasing of these works,” councillor Donnelly explained.
The first phase is now ongoing and means there is in place a road closure on Irish Street, from the Irish Street slip road opposite St Malachy’s Church to the Navan St / Ogle Street junction.
Work began Wednesday and is due to continue until this coming Thursday, August 15. During this time, access to local businesses and residences will be via the Navan St/Ogle St junction.
Councillor Donnelly added: “Phase two will follow completion of phase one and will take approximately four days to complete.
“A lane closure will be in place on Irish Street (city bound) and two-way traffic will be maintained with the use of temporary traffic signals during this time.
“A lane closure will also be in place on the Irish Street slip road, with access available from the Irish Street end only. Traffic on Friary Road should follow the diversion signs.
“Phase three includes the reconstruction of a five metre deep manhole in Irish Street at the entrance to St Malachy’s Church; for safety reasons a road closure will be in place for up to two weeks. During this work, access will be maintained to local businesses and residents.”
Working hours will generally be 8am until 7pm Monday to Saturday, but to complete all three phases of work by Friday, August 30, it may be necessary at times for work to be undertaken outside of these hours.
