One of Derry city’s main thoroughfares set to close for a year for ‘essential infrastructure improvements’

One of Derry city’s main thoroughfares is set to close for a year, to facilitate “essential infrastructure improvements” by NI water.

The utility confirmed Foyle Street will close to motorists, between Water Street and Shipquay Place, for 12 months, from Monday, August 12.

According to NI Water, the work will see the replacement of the 100-year-old water and wastewater network in this part of the city.

The installation of a dedicated storm (rain) water pipeline and the completion of over 50 connections to local properties, will also take place.

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While work is ongoing, pedestrian access will be maintained on Foyle Street and bus services will operate from both Foyle Street Car Park (Ulsterbus services) and Foyle Street Bus Station (Foyle Metro & Goldliner services).

An NI Water spokesperson said: “Our contractor will manage deliveries to businesses and other day-to-day operations on Foyle Street and designated taxi bays will be implemented and accessible to pedestrians during the work.

“During the first week of the Foyle Street closure, Water Street (country bound) will also be closed to complete preliminary work currently ongoing in that area. Motorists will be diverted from Orchard Street along the front of Foyleside Shopping Centre to the Foyle Embankment.

“Signage will be in place to direct motorists for all phases of work.”

NI Water added it would like to thank the public for its “patience and cooperation” while work on Foyle Street was ongoing.

It added: “We will endeavour to deliver a modern water and wastewater system in a sensitive and timely way.”

During the ongoing works, Translink has set up a temporary bus stop centre, next to the Peace Garden, just off the Foyle Embankment.