Maghera's multi-million pound public realm scheme is set to begin as CivCo Ltd., the project contractors, will break ground on Monday 15 July.

The extensive public realm works in Maghera aim to revitalise the town centre, funded by the UK Government's Levelling Up Fund and overseen by Mid Ulster District Council. This scheme will introduce new paving, street lighting, tree planting and street furniture, while also addressing substandard footpath widths and improving pedestrian access throughout the area.

The scheme spans Main Street, and extends to Coleraine Road, Station Road, Meeting House Avenue, Tirkane Road, Church Street, Glen Road, Hall Street, Bank Square and St Lurach’s Road.

Chair of Mid Ulster District Council, Councillor Eugene McConnell, said: "Breaking ground is a significant milestone not just for the Public Realm Scheme, but also for the Maghera Regeneration Programme as a whole, marking the start of realising our vision for Maghera.

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"Our priority now is to ensure that the work is carried out to the highest standards with the minimum of disruption to our residents, businesses and visitors. The complex construction programme is designed to support that aim, completing work in stages, maintaining access to properties for our residents, and most importantly, keeping the town centre open for business."

The initial phase, including Coleraine Road, Upper Main Street, Lower Main Street, Hall Street and St Lurach's Road, is scheduled to finish by mid-autumn. Following this, the contractor will proceed to the second phase. Station Road will act as the primary traffic diversion route throughout the project, which is projected to conclude by spring 2025.

Councillor Brian McGuigan, Chairman of the Maghera Town Centre Forum, commented on the importance of the scheme for the local community, emphasising its potential to rejuvenate the area and boost economic activity. "While these exciting improvements are underway, we want to remind everyone that the town is still very much open for business. We encourage residents and visitors to continue supporting our local traders, who are an integral part of Maghera's vibrant community."

CivCo Ltd Contracts Director, Paul McFlynn, added: "We are looking forward to transforming Maghera into a space that not only meets the needs of today but also fosters growth and opportunity for future generations."