Wilson surveys progress on Dungannon to Ballygawley Road upgrade

Finance Minister, Sammy Wilson took to the road today to view progress on the Dungannon to Ballygawley road infrastructure project.

Speaking during his visit to the project near Dungannon, the Minister said: "The dualling of the A4 from Dungannon to Ballygawley will cut journey times between Belfast and Fermanagh and make a significant contribution to improving road safety on this important route. This upgrade is another example of how continuing investment by the Executive makes a difference to local people’s lives."

Mr Wilson continued: "Recent weeks have seen news coverage of the constrained financial situation facing the Executive. These reports highlight the difficult decisions that will have to be made in the coming months and years as public spending levels slow down and contract.

"These reports reflect the reality that we cannot rely on ever increasing levels of funding coming from Westminster. However the Executive remains committed to investing in infrastructure and the local economy."

The £90million project, funded through a Private Finance Initiative Contract and being built by Amey Lagan Roads Limited (AML), is due for completion in early 2011. Over 20km of road will be upgraded to dual carriageway, with the associated construction of 22 new structures, including agricultural underpasses and a new bridge with a 50m span at Johnsens Glen.

The Minister concluded: "This work will not only reduce journey times, it will ease congestion and improve safety along a key arterial route. It will benefit not only individuals using it, but also the businesses who rely upon efficient transport links to operate effectively and will help attract investment to the area.

"The Executive has made this project a reality and will continue to invest in the future of Northern Ireland, despite the challenging economic times."

Notes to editors:

1. The upgrade to the A4 Dungannon to Ballygawley is part of the Department of Regional Development Roads Service DBFO2 £230million project which also includes an upgrade of the A1 Belfast-Newry-ROI and the construction of the recently opened Newry by-pass.
2. Media enquiries only to DFP Communications Office on 028 9052 7278 or 028 9052 27375. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
3. Photos available upon request from DFP Communications Office on 028 9052 7378.