Roadworks on a key route between Belfast and Derry have been postponed after local elected representatives persuaded the Department to do so.
The route through Dungiven from the Glenshane Pass was due to be closed from Friday, August 19 at 9pm to Monday, August 22 at 4am.
However, Department for Infrastructure chiefs decided that the planned A6 roadworks will no longer go ahead, with alternative arrangements now being discussed.
Read more: 'Jog in The Bog' event in memory of Derry man 'to be biggest ever'
The road closure would have left Dungiven residents wanting to travel to Derry and Belfast in limbo with Translink confirming they would not operate through the Co Derry town for the duration of the closure.
The Department for Infrastructure previously said: "The closure is required to complete final surfacing at the new Dungiven roundabout. Although no through traffic will be permitted through the works during the closure period, the contractor will endeavour to facilitate local vehicular access when possible. Access for emergency vehicles and pedestrian access will be maintained at all times."
Confirming the Department's recent decision, Sinn Fein councillor Kathleen McGurk said: "After representations and discussions with Dept of Infrastructure from myself and Sean McGlinchey this week, we can now confirm that the planned road closures for the weekend have been postponed.
"We will now be requesting a meeting between DfI, SWS and all stakeholders to plan a way forward that sees the community’s concerns taken into consideration to ensure these essential and welcome works can be completed.
"The A6 dualling scheme is very much welcomed by the people of Dungiven but the level of disruption must be minimised as much as possible while the works are ongoing. Your local representatives will continue to ensure the voices of Dungiven people are heard during this project."
READ NEXT:
-
New Derry housing estate as seen from the sky in latest video
-
Brother of NI Doctor who died of cancer on leaving a lasting legacy in his memory
-
JYSK Letterkenny: IKEA retail 'rival' set to open in matter of weeks
To get the latest breaking news from Co Derry straight to your inbox, sign up to our free newsletter
