The A26 Dromore Road is the principal access route in and out of Banbridge from the north (Belfast) direction on the A1. At this point the A1 passes the eastern edge of Banbridge. It meets the A1 at a T-junction where vehicles wishing to turn right onto the A1, or turn right off the A1 into Banbridge, must cross one or more carriageways. As with all at-grade junctions on the A1, this problem causes accidents and delays.

This project involves the construction of a bridge, roughly 50-100 metres south of the existing junction. A roundabout will then be built on the Banbridge Road connecting to a loop which will pass over the A1 and round to meet the southbound carriageway on the other side. According to Roads Service the loop will "adopt the minimum 40 metre radius". However, this tight geometry is not thought to present a risk since it is "isolated from the existing road network reducing the potential risks associated with the change in standards".

The map below shows the current arrangement shown as the green/red roads, with the proposed bridge and link road shown in blue.

Progress

20 Mar 2008: According to site visitor Alan Mannis, work has begun with earthworks underway. As this is one of the busiest junctions on the A1, this scheme will be a significant safety improvement.

27 Sep 2007: According to Roads Service, work is due to get underway in April 2008. Some hedge removal has taken place already, ahead of the bird nesting season.

Map

The proposed link road and bridge shown in blue (not to scale).

See alternative Roads Service map by clicking here.