Residents and businesses in Portadown have aired their frustrations with the ongoing five-mile diversion in place due to gasworks along the Tandragee Road in the town.
Carla Lockhart MP says she has met with Firmus Gas, Department for Infrastructure representatives and contractors in relation to ongoing traffic diversions and disruption in the area.
The Upper Bann representative raised community concerns around the five mile diversion in place, the impact on residents including the elderly, and also the negative impact on local businesses.
“I have had many residents and local businesses contact me about the impact the ongoing road improvements are having on day to day life, and business, on the Tandragee Road,” said Ms Lockhart.
“Currently a five mile diversion is being operated, which appears excessive.
“To make the frustrations of residents known, I met with Firmus Gas representatives, DfI Roads representatives, and Keir Contracts who are involved in the works delivery, to press home the case for accelerating the works and moving to a two way traffic management model.”
Ms Lockhart said she has received assurances that additional hours are being worked to reach a point whereby the two way traffic light management can be introduced.
She continued: “This will allow traffic to flow along the route whilst works are ongoing. Delays will of course continue, but this will at least make access easier for residents and business.
“I will continue to monitor the delivery of these works and would welcome ongoing feedback from residents as to how the impact of the works is being felt locally.
“Further engagement with those delivering the scheme are planned so please get in touch if there are specific issues you would like me to raise.”
