Need for flexibility over Castlewellan road works

Need for flexibility over Castlewellan road works

12 June 2019

MAJOR concern has been raised about the impact a gas pipe laying scheme will have on Castlewellan businesses over the summer months.

South Down MP Chris Hazzard, Emma Rogan MLA and Slieve Croob councillor Roisin Howell met with representatives from Phoenix Natural Gas last week, calling for a suspension of work during July and August.

There is concern about the impact of the work on high profile tourism events including the Ulster Fleadh, Soma Festival and Castlewellan Agricultural Show.

Cllr Howell said Castlewellan needed to be open for business this summer, highlighting the need for a “sensible and workable solution” in relation to works due to take place.

She said that while Phoenix produced a compromise so traders would be afforded every opportunity to make a living and the lively summer season would not be negatively impacted on, roads officials were “unwilling to show any flexibility”.

She continued: “The works must be temporarily suspended to allow businesses to operate unhindered during the two most important months of the year. We also have the Soma Festival and Ulster Fleadh which will bring in thousands of visitors, boosting the economy.”

Ms Rogan confirmed that a meeting is being sought with senior roads officials to discuss the issue,  encouraging people to attend a public information event at The Lodge in the town tonight at 7pm. It  will be attended by roads and Phoenix representatives to discuss the planned work.

A Phoenix spokeswoman said that as part of its investment to bring the benefits of natural gas to 13 towns across East Down, the company will be working across the Castlewellan area in the coming weeks.

“We have communicated with impacted residents and traders who have been invited to find out more about the upcoming works at a public information event tonight,” she explained.

“We are aware of upcoming festivities taking place across the town and continue to review the most appropriate ways to mitigate against unnecessary disruption.”

The spokeswoman added: “In scheduling these works, we have liaised with relevant statutory authorities and agencies to ensure a co-ordinated approach to works taking place across the wider East Down area.”