Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins has confirmed that a significant £430,000 investment in Cookstown's active travel infrastructure will begin today, Monday 5 January 2026.

The project focuses on the A29 Dungannon Road, where approximately 1.1km of new footway and cycleway will be constructed, stretching from Riverdale Drive towards the Killycolp Road junction.

The initiative is designed to bolster the existing network, making it easier for residents to choose walking, wheeling, or cycling for local trips. By extending current provisions, the Department hopes to encourage a shift away from car usage for shorter journeys, citing both health and environmental benefits.

Minister Liz Kimmins commented on the launch of the project: "This scheme will greatly enhance provision for walking, wheeling and cycling in the Cookstown area by extending the current footway/cycleway on the A29 Dungannon Road and providing further links to the existing network.

-- Advertisement --

"Schemes such as this form part of my Department's ongoing commitment to increase opportunities for active travel and provide excellent healthy and environmentally friendly transport choices for people who wish to leave the car behind for some of their shorter local journeys."

To ensure the safety of workers and the public, several traffic management measures will be implemented over a projected 16-week period. A one-way lane closure will affect northbound traffic heading towards Cookstown between 09:30 and 16:30, Monday to Friday. During these hours, a signed diversion will be active via Annagh Road and Sandholes Road.

Furthermore, Killycolp Road, 1 Strifehill Road, 4 Old Loughry Road, and Ardcumber Road will be closed to through traffic for the duration of the works, though local access for residents will be maintained. A temporary 40mph speed limit will also be enforced on the A29 between the Dungannon Road Roundabout (Loughry Roundabout) and the Tullyard Road junction.

While the Department has planned the works to limit disruption, road users are warned to expect delays and should plan for extra travel time. The scheduled 16-week completion date remains subject to favourable weather conditions.