£430,000 Active Travel Scheme Launches in Cookstown

The £430,000 active travel scheme is set to start on January 5, 2024, along the A29 Dungannon Road in Cookstown. This initiative aims to enhance facilities for pedestrians and cyclists by constructing approximately 1.1 kilometers of new footway and cycleway from Riverdale Drive to the Killycolp Road junction.

Scheme Details and Benefits

Infrastructure Minister Kimmins announced the commencement of the project, emphasizing its importance for the local community. “This scheme will greatly enhance provision for walking, wheeling, and cycling in the Cookstown area by extending the current footway and cycleway on the A29 Dungannon Road and providing further links to the existing network,” he stated.

This project is part of the Department’s ongoing commitment to promote active travel. The initiative reflects an effort to offer sustainable transport options that encourage residents to opt for healthier, environmentally friendly alternatives to driving for shorter journeys.

Traffic Management and Safety Measures

To facilitate the construction safely, a one-way lane closure will be implemented on the A29 Dungannon Road for northbound traffic. This closure will be in effect from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM daily, Monday to Friday, for a duration of 16 weeks. Signed diversion routes will direct traffic via Annagh Road and Sandholes Road during these hours.

Additionally, several roads, including Killycolp Road, Strifehill Road, Old Loughry Road, and Ardcumber Road, will be fully closed to through traffic. Local access to properties within the construction area will be maintained.

A temporary speed limit of 40 mph will also be enforced on a section of the A29 Dungannon Road, extending from the Dungannon Road Roundabout (Loughry Roundabout) to the junction with Tullyard Road. This speed limit will remain in place throughout the construction period.

While the Department has made efforts to manage the traffic effectively and minimize inconvenience, road users should anticipate some delays. Commuters are advised to allow extra time for travel in the area and to adhere to all temporary traffic restrictions. Completion of the scheme within the planned timeframe will depend on favorable weather conditions.