Two public information events will take place next week to set out the proposed route for the A29 Cookstown bypass and Sandholes Link Road scheme.
Taking place on December 7 and 8 in the Burnavon Arts and Cultural Centre from 11am to 9pm, Department for Infrastructure representatives and engineering consultants will be on hand to answer any questions people might have.
Those wishing to attend are being asked to register their attendance in advance due to the on-going COVID-19 restrictions. This can be done by calling 028 867 69949 and selecting option 1.
Delivery of the scheme, which consists of a single-carriageway bypass running around the eastern side of the town, as well as a footway and cycleway, is estimated to cost between £45m and £55m.
Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon said: “Last year I announced my intention to progress a number of strategic road improvement schemes as part of my plan to aid economic recovery and community transformation and address regional imbalance.
“One of these projects was the A29 Cookstown Bypass so I am pleased that we are now in a position to provide details of the preferred route to the local community.
“The proposed route which is approximately 4km has been designed as a wide single carriageway, with overtaking opportunities in both directions.
“As part of my commitment to delivering green infrastructure and providing greater opportunities for active travel I am pleased to confirm there will also be provision of a footway/cycleway along the entire scheme.
“The project also includes plans to upgrade the Sandholes Link Road including the provision of a footway/cycleway.
“The Cookstown Bypass scheme provides a significant opportunity to remove strategic traffic from the town centre of Cookstown.”
The Minister revealed that plans are in place to commission a separate feasibility study that will explore what environmentally-friendly travel choices are open to those living in the Country Tyrone market town.
“I would encourage the local community and interested stakeholders to book into the slots for the public information events where they will have the opportunity to view the plans and discuss the details with my officials,” added the Minister.
The scheme brochure can be accessed from December 7 by visiting the Department for Infrastructure website.
