Traffic warning ahead of weekend race in Lifford

MOTORISTS are being advised to expect delays this Sunday as thousands of runners take part in the sold-out Strabane Lifford Half Marathon.

Now in its tenth year, the popular cross-border event begins at 9.30am from the Alley Theatre in Strabane and concludes around 12:30pm at the Melvin Running Track. This year’s course has been redesigned to avoid the A5 bypass, bringing more of the race into the town centre and incorporating the Strabane Pedestrian Bridge for the first time.

With increased participation and footfall expected, temporary traffic restrictions will be in place along various roads including Main Street, Railway Street, Bridge Street, Urney Road, and parts of the A5 and A38. In Donegal, the N15 southbound between Lifford and Clady will be closed from 8.30am to 1pm, with diversions in operation.

Railway Street, Bridge Street, and Bradley Way are expected to see the most disruption between 9.30am and 10am. Residents living along the route are urged to park off-road where possible and use caution when exiting onto main roads. Churchgoers travelling to services in Strabane, Lifford, Castlefinn and Doneyloop are advised to allow extra time for their journey.

Mayor Lilian Seenoi-Barr, who will officially start the race, encouraged the public to come out and support the runners while also being mindful of travel arrangements.

“There’s great excitement building around the event, and while some disruption is inevitable, everything is in place to minimise inconvenience,” she said.

Race pack collection will take place at the Melvin Sports Complex from May 16 to 18, and no parking will be available on-site during the event. Full route details and road closure times are available at www.derrystrabane.com/slhm.

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