New Magherafelt bypass ‘bringing in £1 million a month’

Transport Minister, Michelle McIlveen pictured with William Diver from Bam/McCann Joint Venture as the viewed progress on the £35million Magherafelt bypass scheme which is due to be completed in October next year.

The minister was speaking during her first trip to the site which links the Castledawson roundabout with the Moneymore Road on the outskirts of Magherafelt.

The roadway, estimated to cost £35 million, is making good progress and is on schedule for completion next autumn.

“I have been very impressed by the progress of the work on this important scheme which, once completed, will benefit Magherafelt and all those who travel along this busy route,” said the minister.

Flagging up its benefits to the community, she said: “It has also helped to secure jobs in the local construction industry and will contribute towards the economic development of the Mid-Ulster area.

“The bypass scheme aims to improve road safety, reduce congestion and thereby improve Magherafelt town centre environment and improve journey times.”

Around 75% of the earth works have now been completed, which required almost 500,000 tonnes of material to be moved.

The installation of the drainage culverts are also almost completed and half of the permanent fencing has been erected.

The construction of the farm underpasses and overbridges along the route are also progressing well.