Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins and the PSNI's Road Policing Unit are calling on motorists to show greater care around roadworks as Road Worker Safety Week begins on Monday 2 November 2026. The campaign asks drivers to slow down, obey temporary traffic controls, and respect crews working on roads and footpaths.

Minister Kimmins said road workers carry out essential work in difficult conditions close to moving traffic. She described verbal or physical attacks on workers as shocking and unacceptable. She urged drivers to take extra care near roadworks, obey temporary traffic lights and signs, and show patience and respect.

Chief Inspector Celeste Simpson, head of the PSNI's Road Policing Unit, reminded drivers that temporary speed limits and traffic lights at roadworks are legally enforceable. Ignoring them can lead to a £60 fine and three penalty points. She said the issue is about responsible driving, as road workers have families waiting at home. She asked drivers to be considerate, slow down, and obey temporary traffic lights.

Separately, Minister Kimmins has announced a £1.1 million pedestrian and cycling improvement scheme between Newcastle and Castlewellan. Works are due to begin on Monday 9 November 2026. The scheme extends approximately 1.7km along the A50 Castlewellan Road and Newcastle Road, between Sawmill Road and Carrigs Road.

The project will complete an improved active travel corridor for people walking, wheeling, and cycling between the two towns. Minister Kimmins said the scheme demonstrates her commitment to improving infrastructure for people who choose to walk, wheel, or cycle. She thanked residents and the public in advance for their cooperation and asked them to comply with all temporary traffic restrictions.

Works are expected to last approximately 25 weeks, with completion scheduled by summer 2027. Lane closures and temporary traffic signals will be in place between 9:30am and 4:30pm, along with temporary footway closures at various stages. A temporary 40mph speed limit will operate for the duration of the works. Road users are asked to comply with all temporary traffic management and allow extra journey time.