A bridge road that collapsed on the outskirts of Armagh almost three months ago is not expected to fully reopen to the public until March 2026.
The Maydown Bridge – between Benburb and Tullysaran – and a portion of its carriage way suffered serious subsidence following the effects of Storm Amy at the start of October.
Heavy rain and winds saw a large section of the road crumble away, exposing several utility ducts and cables belonging to companies including BT/Openreach, Fibrus Broadband, NIE and NIW.
In the interest of public safety the road was subsequently closed and diversions were put in place. It has, however, remained closed since that date and many residents of the area have been impacted by “severe disruption” as a result.
When pressed for an update on the road repairs by SDLP MLA Justin McNulty, the Minister for Infrastructure, Liz Kimmins explained: “Due to the collapse exposing several utility ducts and cables, repairs to the wall and carriageway could not begin until the service pipes and cables were safely decommissioned and diverted.
“I am pleased to confirm that the diversion works are now complete, and reconstruction of the wall and associated carriageway repairs have commenced on site.”
While carriageway repairs are now underway, the Minister added regarding timeline for completion: “Subject to favourable weather conditions, the road is expected to reopen to traffic by mid-March.
“I fully appreciate the impact of the closure and apologise to the local community, including businesses in the area, for the inconvenience caused.
“Local diversions are in place, and I urge the travelling public to drive with due care and attention and allow extra time for their journeys.”
Sinn Féin MLA, Colm Gildernew for Fermanagh & South Tyrone, has been lobbying for the expeditious repair of the roadway since its collapse.
Speaking to the Infrastructure Minister’s update, he commented: “This remains very disruptive for the local community and detrimental to local business owners.
“I will continue to press for the earliest possible reinstatement and for appropriate management of those roads being used as diversionary routes such as the Point road.”
