A £695,000 carriageway resurfacing scheme has been announced for the Maytown Road, Bessbrook, with work due to begin on Monday, June 1.
Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins confirmed that 2.2km of the route – from McShane’s Road through to the junction with the C214 Kingsmill Road – will be resurfaced in a two-phase programme.
Phase one will focus on preparatory works, including drainage repairs and improvements, ahead of full resurfacing later in the year.
Minister Kimmins said: “This is a substantial investment for the Bessbrook area which will deliver significant benefits for local businesses, residents and road users.
“The investment demonstrates my commitment to improving our road network, which is vital for connecting our businesses and communities. This work will greatly improve the strength and surface quality of this section of the road network to the benefit of local residents, businesses and those travelling in the Bessbrook area.
“Work is expected to be substantially completed by Friday 31 July 2026. I would like to thank residents, local businesses and commuters for their patience while this essential infrastructure work is carried out.”
To facilitate the safe delivery of phase one, the B133 Maytown Road will be closed daily on weekdays from Monday, June 1 to Friday, July 31, 2026, between 8am and 6pm. The road will remain open in the evenings and at weekends.
A signed diversion will be in place via the C214 Kingsmill Road, u5104 Tullywinney Road, B134 Tullyah Road, A25 Newry Road, A25 Newtown Road, A25 Old Road, A25 Main Street, A25 Camlough Road, B133 Millvale Road and B133 Maytown Road, and vice versa.
Phase two, involving the main resurfacing works, will take place later in the year, with exact dates and traffic management arrangements to be confirmed nearer the time.
The Department says work and traffic management have been programmed to minimise disruption, but motorists should expect some delays, allow extra time for journeys and comply with temporary traffic restrictions. Local access will be maintained where possible.
All timings remain subject to favourable weather conditions, and any significant changes will be publicised.
Further information on this and other schemes is available at: www.trafficwatchni.com.
