Dangerous towpath closed for resurfacing

Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council has confirmed a section of the River Bann Parkway, known locally as the towpath, will close between Mullahead and Meadows Portadown between Thursday, December 3 and Friday, December 4.

The issue was first brought to Council’s attention by Alderman, Gareth Wilson during a Council meeting in September.

Speaking following the resurfacing announcement, the DUP representative said he hoped it would leave this route in a safer condition.

“I am pleased this work is now being carried out and hopefully after completion it will leave this very popular cycling and walking route in a safer condition,” said Alderman Wilson.

“I had raised my concerns after a constituent took a tumble off their bicycle in the summer and had injured themselves after hitting a tree root defect on the pathway.

“I would like to thank Council officials for progressing these repairs.”

A spokesperson for Council apologised for the inconvenience but said the work will ensure the area remains “safe and enjoyable” for all users.

“Council can confirm the section between Mullahead Road and Meadows, Portadown, in the River Bann Parkway area will close on Thursday, December 3 and Friday, December 4 to accommodate essential maintenance works,” said a Council spokesperson.

“Due to tree roots and normal wear-and-tear, the surface of this particular stretch has recently become cracked and uneven in places.

“Therefore, to ensure the popular destination remains safe and enjoyable for all users, appointed contractors will remove and repair damaged sections of the towpath.

“We would like to apologise for any inconvenience this may cause to towpath users.”

Speaking at September’s monthly meeting of Council, Alderman Gareth Wilson said it had been brought to his attention that the root of a tree had broken through the tarmac along this stretch of the towpath.

“With regards to the towpath, I did get a report brought to me of a cyclist who came off his bike between the bridge and the Tesco in Portadown,” said the DUP representative.

“From what he says, the root of a tree has broken through the tarmac and has created a substantial ridge.

“No action has been taken as of yet and I would appreciate that this information is taken onboard and officers ensure it is removed or if it is not our responsibility, that whoever needs to know about it is contacted.”

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