Removal of PSNI wall means street closure

Removal of PSNI wall means street closure

20 January 2016

IRISH Street in Downpatrick is to be closed for several months to allow demolition work to start on the heavily fortified blast wall at the town’s former police base.

Contractors are due on site in the summer, with the busy street expected to remain closed until at least the end of September.

Police officers relocated to a new multi-million pound base at the Downshire Civic Centre last month which has paved the way for the blast wall outside the old station to be removed.

South Down MP Margaret Ritchie has welcomed confirmation that contractors will be on site within the new few months. She said the demolition project will allow work to start on much-needed traffic improvements in the town centre.

“Given the vast scale of work that will have to be undertaken to remove the blast wall, Transport NI envisage that Irish Street will be closed for the duration of the work and should reopen before October,” the MP revealed.

“Transport NI have recommended the summer period for the demolition work as traffic volumes would be reduced. The PSNI has also confirmed work will begin on the clearance of the old police station and the removal of protective security measures within the next few weeks.”

Miss Ritchie admitted while there will be disruption during the demolition of the blast wall, she will be pushing for the work to be completed as quickly as possible.

She added: “It’s important the work is completed quickly in order that residents, traders and visitors can reap the benefits of a wider Irish Street and improved traffic progression throughout the town.”