Letterkenny businesses are bracing themselves for the closure of one of the town’s main arteries for SIX weeks from next Monday.
The High Road is set to close from January 9th until February 17th to allow Irish Water to install a new water mains.
The planned work was delayed from November until next week after requests by local businesses due to the busy Christmas period.
Now with the work planned for the coming days, local businesses along the stretch of busy road are fearful of a fall-off in trade.
The many businesses on the route include Macs Deli, Letterkenny Credit Union, Honey Pot, McGlynn Estate Agents, and John F Loughrey Financial Services.
It is understood the works will be carried out in stages in order to minimise the disruption in the area for businesses.
Signs along the road have stressed that business access will be open.
Local county councillor Gerry McMonagle said he understood the need for a new water mains to be installed in the area and then a new resurfacing of the road could take place.
However, he told Donegal Daily that he hoped that Irish Water will expedite the works.
He said “In fairness to Irish Water they were requested to postpone the works which were due to start last November and they agreed to the request by local businesses.
“I understand the fears and concerns but it is vital that the work is done and once it is done that the road is properly resurfaced as it is already in need of repair.
“I would just hope that business access remains for customers for these businesses and that Irish Water expedite the works within that six week planned timeframe.”
During the works diversions will be in place via New Line Road/Glencar Road and Market Square/Main St. De Valera Road, Main Street and Pearse Road will also be used for diversions.
Access to the upper part of High Road can be achieved via Church Lane/Ard O’Donnell/New Line Road.
Donegal County Council have said these works are being planned and carried out by Irish Water.
They added that any members of the public with an issues arising out of the works should contact Irish Water.
