£120k upgrade for Limavady to Dungiven road

There have been several collisions on the busy Ballyquin Road over the years, which have tragically claimed several lives.

Local representatives acknowledge the closure of the road this week will cause disruption for motorists. However, they also hope the £120,000 scheme will improve road safety and save lives.

Sinn Fein councillor Sean McGlinchey said: “Any road works that can improve road safety and help save lives have to be welcomed. There will be some disruption, but people have to accept that is necessary. I do think there should have been better communication and more notification given to local residents. I wasn’t even aware of it, but it’s for a week and hopefully the work will make the road safer.”

SDLP Colr. John Deighan has also welcomed the work.

“I welcome the investment in the road, especially given its past. I would drive on that road four or five times a week and it is dangerous, with surface water lying on it. It’s good news for the people of Limavady and Dungiven that the road will be brought up to a standard the Road Service see fit to declare as safe.”

The road closure is in effect until Friday, 24 February, and from 8am to 6pm daily.

A spokesperson for the Department of Infrastructure said scheduled buses and emergency vehicles will be allowed through the works.

Diversions from Limavady are via the Drumrane Road while diversions from Dungiven are via Derryork Road, the Baranailt Road and Drumrane Road.

“The project will cost £120k and will replace the defective surface on this stretch of road improving the running surface and skid resistance,” said the spokesperson. “Work to replace this defective surface on this stretch of road is being completed now as it was on a priority list to be completed this financial year.”