Dundalk–Carlingford road to close for resurfacing works

Motorists using the Dundalk–Carlingford Road (R173) are being advised of planned overnight road closures next month as Louth County Council prepares to carry out essential resurfacing works on a key section of the route.

The proposed temporary closure will affect the R173 between the Ballymac Roundabout on the R132 and the R174 junction at Rockmarshall, near Bellurgan National School.

Subject to the completion of the statutory public consultation process, the works are scheduled to take place over five consecutive nights, from Monday, August 17, to Friday, August 21, 2026, with the road closed each night from 8pm until 6am.

According to local Sinn Féin councillor Antóin Watters: “Following consultation with the Roads Engineers in Louth County Council, it was agreed that the best way to minimise traffic congestion and disruption for residents, commuters and local businesses is for these resurfacing works to be carried out during the late evening and early morning hours.

“I appreciate that any road closure causes inconvenience, but by carrying out these works overnight we can significantly reduce the impact on motorists while ensuring this important stretch of road is resurfaced safely and efficiently.

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“Thank you in advance to residents, businesses and road users for your patience and cooperation.”

Emergency services will retain access throughout the works, while local access will be maintained where possible.

Diversions will be clearly signposted for motorists travelling in both directions. Eastbound traffic will be diverted via the R132 (Old Newry Road) to Feede Roundabout before continuing along the R174 to Rockmarshall, where drivers can rejoin the R173. Westbound traffic will follow the reverse route, travelling along the R174 to Feede Roundabout before heading south on the R132 back to Ballymac Roundabout.