Significant progress has been made on NI Water's £2.5 million capital investment project at the Craigavon Bridge, designed to future-proof Derry City's drinking water network.

The scheme aims to bolster the resilience of the local supply, reducing the likelihood of pipe bursts and service interruptions for thousands of residents and businesses.

Phase one of the project is nearing completion, with crews currently focused on the removal of scaffolding. To facilitate this work safely, a daily one-way closure remains in effect on the Craigavon Bridge from the Foyle Road Junction to the Duke Street Junction.

During this period, motorists are being diverted via the Foyle Road, Foyle Embankment, or the upper deck of the Craigavon Bridge and Duke Street. As the project transitions into its next stage, new traffic management measures will be implemented starting today, Monday 16 February. A continuous one-way closure will be in place from the Victoria Road Junction to the Craigavon Bridge lower deck, which is expected to remain until July this year.

This closure of the slip lane is essential to provide the project team with access to materials and heavy equipment needed for the replacement of the Water Trunk Main. This specific infrastructure, located on the upstream side of the bridge, is a vital artery for the city's water distribution.

The ongoing works, delivered by lead contractor Farrans, represent a critical investment in the city's infrastructure. By upgrading these trunk mains, NI Water is ensuring that the network can handle high demand and remain operational during adverse weather conditions for the next quarter-century.

A spokesperson for the project team, including Farrans, stated: "NI Water and our project team including contractor Farrans appreciate this work is disruptive and would like to thank the public for their patience and cooperation as we continue work on this essential project."

The upgraded mains will provide enhanced security of supply for approximately 35,000 properties across the city once the full programme of work is completed later this summer.