Sydenham Bypass: Closures on busy route to remain in place until end of November

Overnight and weekend closures of the Sydenham Bypass, one of Belfast’s busiest roads, are set to remain in place until November 25.

In an update issued on Friday, the Department for Infrastructure said the £3.8 million road resurfacing scheme on the citybound section of the route was “progressing”.

The department also said it was aware of “disruption and delays”, but said the “majority of the scheme is expected to be completed ahead of the Christmas period”.

It added that more closures may be required in the new year.

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It comes after major traffic delays in the area last weekend following the start of the work, which the department last week said was “scheduled to be completed over five months”.

In a statement on Friday, the department said overnight and weekend closures on the citybound section would be “in place until Monday 25 November”.

“Weekend closures are taking place over the next eight consecutive weekends, commencing at 10pm tonight, Friday 4 October, until 6am on Monday 7 October, between the Tillysburn junction and the start of the M3 with weeknight overnight closures in operation for the duration of the scheme.

“During periods of closure a diversionary route will be clearly signed via Holywood Road, Newtownards Road and Middlepath Street.

“An alternative route will also be available via Holywood Exchange, Airport Road and Sydenham Road. Alternative routes will also be signed for cyclists and pedestrians.

“Some weekend and overnight lane closures will also be required on the countrybound lanes to ensure the safety of road workers and the travelling public while deep drainage work is carried out along the central reservation.”

The statement added that while “some disruption and delays” are expected, “all work has been carefully planned in order to minimise inconvenience to the public and complete the scheme in as short a period as possible”.

“These essential works are part of our commitment to enhancing road safety, improving the driving experience and reducing long-term maintenance costs,” it said.

“Once completed, the resurfaced road will offer a smoother and more durable surface, benefiting thousands of daily commuters and supporting the long-term infrastructure of this key route.

“The department will also monitor progress throughout and take further mitigation measures to alleviate traffic congestion and delay where possible.”

It said the “majority of the scheme is expected to be completed ahead of the Christmas period when the road will remain open, however, more closures may be required in the new year”.