Repaving of the courtyard in the Buttermarket, Enniskillen started this week – just four days after non-essential retail and outdoor hospitality businesses were permitted to reopen, leaving business owners in the area frustrated by the timing.

The works, which are being undertaken by contractor FP McCann Ltd on behalf of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, commenced on Tuesday, May 4, and are programmed to last approximately two months.

Speaking to The Impartial Reporter, a business owner in the Buttermarket, who wishes to remain anonymous, said: “While I’m sure it will be positive in the long run, it’s really disappointing that this work has commenced four days after non-essential retail has been allowed to reopen.

“I know that they have planned to do it in sections, but it’s just how much disruption it will have on the general public [that is concerning].

“Last week, they [contractors] had trailers and jeeps coming in and out. It’s not very fair that the general public are expected to then mosey around that.”

When asked by this newspaper why the Buttermarket area needs to be repaved, a Council spokesman said: “The current surface finish at the Buttermarket, predominantly pointed granite setts, were installed as part of the renovation of the Buttermarket 35 years ago.

“They are high-maintenance and present difficulties and challenges to disabled visitors to the Buttermarket.

“The Council is replacing them with a contemporary paver that should prove accessible and low-maintenance.

“In undertaking this project, the Council sought advice from the Historic Environment Division of the Department for Communities, and from disability stakeholders.

“Where original and historic coverings remain – such as granite slabs – these will be left in situ.”

In response to being asked why the work is happening now just as businesses are starting to reopen, the Council spokesman said: “The work is being undertaken at this time as funding has become available from the Department of Communities aimed at town centre revival, recovery and renewal.”

The spokesman went on to outline what the Council are doing to ensure that this work isn’t disruptive to businesses in the area.

He said: “The Council is working closely with Fermanagh Enterprise, the tenant for the Buttermarket, and the contractor to ensure that the works are phased to cause minimum disruption to visitors and to the traders in the Buttermarket.”

Explaining what will become of the old paving stones, the Council spokesman added: “​When possible, setts will be salvaged.”

As the works take place, the Buttermarket will remain open for business and pedestrian access is to be maintained to all properties.