Roadworks ahead

The planned seven day closure in the summer will also mean half of Main Street will also be out of bounds because of the town's one way system. The plans by the gas company have caused concern among residents and business leaders alike who say they might as well "shut up shop" during the installation and maintenance work. It is feared the lock down of the road during a time when schools are off and motorists are at a peak, may cause havoc in the town, as well as lose much needed trade. SDLP Councillor Michael Coyle says he is "appalled" by the news.

Councillor Coyle said: "I am absolutely appalled by the fact that a company can close down half of Limavady for a week. This is effectively what they will be doing as Linenhall Street works on a one way system onto half of Main Street."

"This may well be the easiest way for Firmus to lay down their pipes and work but what's best for Firmus is not necessarily what is best for Limavady, it's residents and traders."

"This is especially true for our traders, at a time when they are already under a serious amount of pressure. This could do a fair amount of damage."

The President of the Roe Valley Chamber of Trade and Commerce, Julie Brolly, has also hit out at the plans and called on a consultation meeting between the utilities company and traders. Chamber President Julie Brolly is insisting that this disruption must be kept to a minimum. Speaking to the Sentinel Julie said: "Roe Valley Chamber have a networking event scheduled for 6pm on Tuesday 4th May in the Drummond Hotel, and Firmus Energy are going to come along and speak to Chamber Members at the event about the planned roadworks."

"We fully understand that roads and utilities need to be maintained and repaired, however, it is imperative that a full consultation take place with all stakeholders. It is also imperative that disruption is kept to a minimum for local residents and traders."

Julie added: "Roadwork's and maintenance last year on Main Street and Church Street caused massive inconvenience and disruption, so weare keen to ensure that the lessons from 2009 are learnt, and learnt well!"

Last week Firmus company construction manager Ray Cummins told councillors the one-way street would close to finish necessary pipe work and would be completed during the summer. A spokesperson for Firmus Energy told the Sentinel that a meeting between the company and the Chamber on the issues raised would take place in the coming weeks.