A fallen tree has blocked the Ballydoolagh Road near Enniskillen, disrupting the diversion route in place while the Irvinestown Road remains closed for essential works. The tree came down on Friday on a road that lies just off the Coa Road, which is being used by cars and smaller vehicles travelling between the town and the South West Acute Hospital.

Work on the Irvinestown Road began earlier this week, prompting the closure of the main artery and the establishment of a signed diversion via the Coa Road. Motorists immediately flagged worries about the volume of traffic being pushed onto narrow rural roads, particularly heavy goods vehicles. Warning signs indicate that the route is not suitable for HGVs, but large vehicles have been observed using it nonetheless.

Local residents have reported that tree branches have been struck by passing lorries, and there are fears that the roads lack the width and alignment to handle the current flow safely. Several HGVs have been seen struggling with tight bends and constricted sections.

The Police Service of Northern Ireland has advised that cars and smaller commercial vehicles should follow the diversion through the Coa Road, while lorry drivers are instructed to use an alternative route marked by yellow diversion signs. The blockage on Ballydoolagh Road has now removed one potential escape from the Coa Road, adding to the strain on the local network.

The Department for Infrastructure has not yet commented on when the Irvinestown Road works will be completed or on any measures to address the diversion route issues.