Enniskillen Road Scheme Opens

The A32 Cherrymount Link Road scheme has been completed in Enniskillen, County fermanagh, just in time for the G8 summit.

The scheme provides a strategic link between the approaches to Enniskillen, from Omagh and Belfast, connecting the existing Cherrymount roundabout on the A32 to the north of Enniskillen with the B80 Tempo Road to the southeast of the town.

Speaking at the opening, Regional Development Minister Danny Kennedy said: "This strategic road scheme represents a major investment in Fermanagh by my Department of over £16m.

"It will greatly help the flow of traffic around Enniskillen and improve road safety conditions. As well as easing congestion at Gaol Square junction and helping to reduce journey times, it also provides more convenient and quicker access to and from the South West Acute Hospital.

"The completion of the road, well ahead of the G8 Summit, will significantly help with the expected increase in the volume of traffic around Enniskillen later this month."

The development was delayed by around six months following the discovery of a crannog; an historical artificial lake.

The Minister said: "I was content to approve several extensions to the dig period because I recognised the historical importance of the crannog. I wanted to ensure that the feature had been excavated and recorded to the satisfaction of the senior archaeologists responsible for directing the dig. The archaeological field crew managed to excavate the crannog to a depth of seven metres and recovered some 5,000 artefacts.

"Despite the delay, the scheme was completed in advance of the G8 summit. I want to congratulate my officials and the contractors involved for all of their efforts in completing this road which will bring many benefits to local community."

(IT/CD)