Fresh dig called off

The new road and footpath was completed last Friday by Roads Service and on Monday the ‘MAIL’ became aware that NI Water were preparing to excavate the resurfaced road and footpath to put in a water meter.

Stuart Castles, owner of Buttered Up in Windsor Avenue, commented: “The Road Services did a sound job in laying the new road and footpath. Yes, they took 12 weeks to do what was supposed to be a six-week contract but there were complications and in the end they left the road looking as well as it’s ever looked.

“That’s why it came as a shock when someone from NI Water turned up on Monday to say they needed to dig it up again.”

It’s understood NI Water were due to carry out work on the reinstallation of a water meter between October 1 and 3 (Monday and Wednesday).

Stuart added: “Thankfully it appears they’ve seen sense as someone from NI Water came back on Tuesday and said he was unlikely to insist that the water meter is replaced given the circumstances.”

A spokesperson from NI Water said: “NI Water can confirm work is scheduled to install a new meter at a property on Windsor Avenue, Lurgan. The site was surveyed prior to the resurfacing work being undertaken. As a consequence of the resurfacing work, NI Water will investigate the possibility of alternative installation methods.

“NI Water works closely with a number of other agencies to co-ordinate planned works throughout Northern Ireland and is a member of NIRAUC (NI Roads and Utilities Committee). This allows us to liaise with others when we are carrying out vital projects to minimise disruption to local residents and businesses. As more agencies come on board and share information, the better co-ordinated we will be going forward.”

DUP MLA Stephen Moutray welcomed the resurfacing, but warned against digging up the freshly finished road.

He said: “I would welcome the resurfacing scheme on Windsor Avenue undoubtedly this stretch of road was in much need of resurfacing.”

“I have been involved significantly in the lobbying for such a scheme given that this is one of the main roads to our iconic park and to Brownlow house, two of the main tourist attractions within our borough of Craigavon.

“Whilst I commend the resurfacing I would vehemently oppose any further works being carried out on this stretch of road given the effect the current work scheme has had on businesses and the fact that the road would have unnecessary patches.

“It is up to statutory authorities to avail of the time set aside prior to the commencement of resurfacing work and I believe penalties should be applied if they proceed to dig up a newly resurfaced road. This is something I will be taking up with the Minister for Regional Development.”

“The work carried out on Windsor Avenue was much needed and I know that pedestrians and motorists will benefit from it.”