Newry, Mourne and Down District Council received an update on road maintenance and improvement works at a meeting on Monday 28 September. Divisional Roads Manager Cindy Noble outlined the Department for Infrastructure's plans for 2025/26 and 2026/27.

An indicative allocation of approximately £98 million has been set for structural maintenance, an increase of around £30 million from the previous year. Of this, £12.5 million is earmarked for a Roads Recovery Fund targeting high priority resurfacing, roadside stability and drainage projects. Rural road maintenance receives £10 million, double last year's amount.

Noble said the Department is developing a Transport Strategy 2035 to set a long-term vision and strategic framework for the region. The strategy aims to support economic growth and enhance connectivity while promoting sustainable transport. Local Transport Plans are being developed alongside councils' Local Development Plans for integrated transport and land use planning.

Road safety remains a high priority, with a commitment to making roads safer for all users. Completed projects in the district include resurfacing on Cullaville Road in Crossmaglen, Ballynahinch Road in Crossgar and Ardmore Road in Newry. A traffic signal upgrade at Francis Street and Dominic Street in Newry was also finished.

Planned for 2026/27 are additional resurfacing schemes in Bryansford Village, New Road in Silverbridge and Old Warrenpoint Road in Newry. Pedestrian improvements include a puffin crossing at Monaghan Street in Newry and at Downshire Road near Windsor Hill Primary School. Signalised junction upgrades are planned for Market Street and Church Street in Downpatrick and Bridge Street at Quays and Buttercrane in Newry.

Noble said the projects will benefit the local community and commuters in the district.