Roadworks on M1 Motorway Affecting Eastbound Traffic
A section of the M1 motorway heading towards Belfast will experience significant changes in traffic flow over the next two weeks. Starting from Friday, a portion of the eastbound carriageway will be closed overnight and reduced to a single lane for daily operations. These adjustments are part of a resurfacing project aimed at improving road conditions and ensuring safer travel for all users.
The Department for Infrastructure has confirmed that the works will take place between Junction 11 (Ballynacor) and Junction 10 (Lurgan). The project is expected to be completed by Friday, 8 August. During this time, drivers should be aware of the following changes:
- On-slip road closure: The eastbound on-slip road at Junction 11 (Ballynacor) bound for Belfast will remain closed throughout the duration of the works. Drivers will need to follow alternative routes via the M1 westbound carriageway and the M1 Junction 12 (Birches) interchange to access the eastbound direction.
- Single-lane restrictions: Between Junction 11 and Junction 10, the eastbound carriageway will be reduced to one lane during specific hours. The restricted hours vary depending on the day:
- Monday to Friday: 6.00am to 8.00pm
- Saturday: 7.00am to 8.00pm
- Sunday: 12.00noon to 8.00pm
- Nighttime closures: From 8.00pm to 6.00am on Sunday to Thursday, and from 8.00pm on Friday to 7.00am on Saturday, the same stretch will be fully closed. Additionally, from 8.00pm on Saturday to 12.00noon on Sunday, the area will also be closed with a diversionary route in place.
Additional Safety Measures
To ensure the safety of both workers and drivers, a temporary speed limit of 50 mph will be enforced along the affected stretch of the M1. Overtaking will be prohibited during these works. These measures are essential to prevent accidents and maintain smooth traffic flow despite the ongoing construction.
Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins has praised the resurfacing project as a “much-needed” investment in the region’s road network. She highlighted the importance of such initiatives in maintaining and improving infrastructure for the benefit of all road users.
“This is a very significant investment in our motorway network,” Ms Kimmins said. “It demonstrates my commitment to enhancing our road infrastructure and will bring substantial benefits for drivers.”
She also expressed gratitude to the public for their patience and cooperation during the works. “I would like to thank the travelling public in advance for their support while these essential improvements are carried out. I urge everyone to slow down, be patient, and follow all temporary traffic management arrangements.”
Drivers are encouraged to plan their journeys in advance and consider alternative routes where possible. Regular updates on road conditions and work progress can be found through official transport channels. By working together, road users can help ensure the success of this important infrastructure project.
