A £414,000 road resurfacing scheme on the A46 Lough Shore Road in Enniskillen has encountered ongoing ground movement problems, despite efforts to improve safety along the route.
Details of the project were released in response to a priority written question from Ulster Unionist MLA Diana Armstrong, who asked for both the cost of the most recent works and an assessment of their effectiveness.
The Department for Infrastructure confirmed the resurfacing was completed in autumn 2025 at a cost of £414,000.
However, the Department said sections of the route are prone to naturally occurring ground movement, with two such areas falling within the limits of the recent scheme.
At one location on the western boundary, underlying movement has led to a depression forming in the newly laid surface. A temporary lane closure has been put in place while the issue is investigated. Officials stressed that the resurfacing works did not cause or contribute to the problem, describing settlement as a recurring issue at that specific point.
The scheme also sought to address safety concerns along what was described as a winding stretch of road. Prior to the works, parts of the route had little or no verge or supporting embankment. Additional verge width was introduced to allow for the future installation of a permanent vehicle restraint system once ground conditions stabilise.
However, the newly formed verge embankment has itself experienced settlement at two locations. Remedial works are planned in the coming weeks, although the Department indicated that ground movement may continue over a longer period and will require ongoing monitoring.
The Department also pointed to the road’s proximity to Lough Erne as a contributing factor, with water seepage and runoff affecting the condition of the underlying soil and the load-bearing capacity of the road structure.
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