A controversial road-widening scheme on the outskirts of Cookstown is expected to get underway in the coming months.

During a meeting, with the Roads Service, locals were given the opportunity to see what the proposed roadworks on the Drum Road, near Blackhill would entail.

The scheme has not come about without opposition as it will include the removal of part of the historical Derryloran old graveyard and this has angered many locals.

However the Tyrone Courier has reported that there was a poor turnout at the meeting with few locals in attendance and fewer questions asked.

The Roads Service has said it was planning to create a better and safer environment for all road users by widening the narrow bridge near the Blackhill corner. Limited road width means that large vehicles can have difficulty passing and the narrow footway can feel uncomfortable to pedestrians.

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Having examined a range of options, Roads Service said the preferred means of improving the road would be to widen the bridge on the south side.

Mr Daniel Healy, Roads Service Project Engineer said: "The Roads Service is very aware of the historical nature of the old Derryloran graveyard and have linked up with archeologists to comply with regulations and conditions to ensure that areas of historical interest were properly maintained.

"There was one plot close to the location of the scheme but he expressed hope it would be left undisturbed."

However, the Project Engineer said that if this proved impossible, then permission would be sought from the family concerned to disinter any remains found in another part of the old graveyard and this would be done in a humane way and would involve an archeologist.

Meanwhile several locals attending the meeting put forward views which included the need for speed calming measures on the Drum Road, also traffic calming, cameras and the need for a roundabout.

Mr Harry Gallagher, Roads Service Section Engineer, said he took on board the views expressed, in particular concerns that the new wider road might make for faster traffic. He said if this proved to be the case, Roads Service would look at introducing measures to offset speeding traffic and thus improving safety.

In reply to concerns about roadworks, the Roads Service representatives said the carriageway would remain open for the majority of the works with traffic lights and diversions required towards the later stages of the works "for a short period".

Following the consultation period, Roads Service told the meeting that is was hoped to begin works within two months.

(LB/GK)