Traffic disruption in Dungannon caused by ongoing gas network works has prompted local councillors to press Mid Ulster District Council officers to consider practical measures to keep shoppers and visitors coming into the town centre.
Works, timings and traffic management
Operator Evolve began a phase of gas works on 14 July that affects Northland Row, Northland Place and Ranfurly Road. The current phase is expected to run for two to three weeks, with a further, wider programme due to follow in August. To assist traffic flow, a one-way closure is in place for inbound vehicles approaching the town centre; outbound traffic is unaffected.
| Location | Start date | Expected duration |
|---|---|---|
| Northland Row | 14 July | 2–3 weeks |
| Northland Place | 14 July | 2–3 weeks |
| Ranfurly Road | 14 July | 2–3 weeks |
Councillors call for signage and short-term parking relief
At a meeting of the council's Environment Committee on 8 July, Councillor Deirdre Varsani (Sinn Féin, Dungannon DEA) asked officers to bring forward options to address on-street and town-centre parking while the works are in place, noting traders’ concerns about access and footfall.
“Traders have raised those issues in terms of encouraging people to still come into the town, park and make use of it. I do not expect an answer tonight, but I wish to raise the issue.”
Councillor Clement Cuthbertson (DUP, Dungannon DEA) suggested enhanced directional signage to the town car parks and asked the council to consider temporary subsidised parking arrangements similar to the limited charges applied at Christmas: a token fee for a small number of hours rather than free parking.
“They had also mentioned the possibility of free car parking. I spoke to a couple of them today and it would probably be better to move towards the scenario we have at Christmas, a limited charge, maybe 10p for two or three hours.”
Head of Property Services, Terry Scullion, confirmed that officers from the Economic Development and Regeneration team are engaging with local stakeholders. He also noted that the Department for Infrastructure holds authority for the gas works and is undertaking its own engagement on traffic management.
What this means for motorists and traders
- Motorists should expect inbound restrictions to the town centre on affected streets while the works continue.
- Drivers are advised to follow temporary signage directing them to town car parks to avoid delays.
- Traders are seeking a short-term relaxation or reduction in parking charges to maintain customer access.
The council has been asked to consider bringing proposals to full council for approval within the month, allowing time for any temporary parking measures to be implemented while the gas works remain in place. Further details on any agreed subsidy, tariff or additional signage will be published once officers report back to councillors.
Residents and business owners affected by the works should monitor council communications and follow the directions of on-site traffic management while works are under way.
