Kennedy announces progress on £4.5million investment in Ards

Regional Development Minister Danny Kennedy has set out Roads Service’s progress on investment totalling £4.5million for maintenance schemes in the Ards Borough this year.
~ Tuesday, 18 October 2011

Speaking after last night’s meeting between Roads Service and Ards Borough Council, the Minister said: “A wide range of improvement and maintenance schemes is underway or already complete in the Ards Borough. This includes completion of a junction improvement scheme on the A20 Rowreagh Road with the Gransha Road, Kircubbin.”

“The priorities and constraints placed on funding levels by Budget 2010 mean it is likely the programme of local transport and safety measures in 2012/13 and 2013/14 will be under considerable pressure. While current indications are that funding for resurfacing and minor improvement works will be very limited next year, I remain committed to delivering these important schemes as resources permit. The autumn round of Council meetings is a timely opportunity for Councils to discuss potential schemes and priorities for incoming and future years."

At the meeting, Network Development Manager, Reynold Nicholson highlighted a number of improvement and maintenance schemes currently under construction and planned this year. “I am pleased to note that work is nearing completion on the A21 Comber Road, Ballygowan at the Brae. This scheme provides improved visibility and safety for drivers at this location. In addition resurfacing has been completed on the A20 Kempe Stones Road and North Road, Newtownards and Abbey Road, Millisle.”

Mr Nicholson also discussed his priority list of schemes planned for 2012/13 and onwards, which include improvement works on the Ballyrainey Road, Newtownards and the Rowreagh Road with the Rubane Road, Kircubbin. These schemes aim to improve driver visibility and safety.

Notes to editors:

1. Media queries to: Department for Regional Development, Press Office, Tel: 028 9054 0372.