While last week traffic snarl-ups were at their worst at peak morning and evening times, motorists reported huge tailbacks throughout the day on Friday, Saturday and Monday with lines of vehicles stretching from Gaol Square right back to the Cherrymount roundabout.

It is hoped that the forthcoming week should see a lessening of delays during ‘school run’ periods, with schools finishing up for the year, but the effect remains to be seen.

Sinn Fein Councillor Tommy Maguire said: “The first day we had it was obviously a nightmare. We got some adjustments to the lights at Dunnes Stores but the problem has still been quite severe in the mornings with the school traffic. Hopefully that’ll improve with the schools finishing.”

Over the weekend delays were reported by GAA fans travelling through the town for the Ulster semi-final in Clones between Donegal and Derry and hundreds of Donegal fans experienced lengthy delays as they tried to battle through the town.

At other times road users have been caught up in lengthy delays with traffic backed up on the Irvinestown Road and knock-on congestion being experienced right through the town.

Businesses on both the Cornagrade Road, which have been hugely affected, and town centre businesses have reported a loss in footfall and frustrated customers.

For their part, Transport NI have given little more in terms of assurance. When asked by the Fermanagh Herald to provide an update on the situation, the agency issued a generic statement.

 In a statement, the spokesman said: “TransportNI would remind drivers that the bridge remains open to northbound traffic, however, traffic patterns do take time to adjust to any change in the network. Once flows become stabilised any necessary adjustments, such as modifying the timings of traffic signals, will be carried out.

 The spokesman added: “The improvements are essential to ensure that Johnston Bridges are fit for purpose for many years to come. The Department regrets the unavoidable disruption during the works. Drivers should expect delays and are advice to allow additional time when travelling in the area.”