£4.7million Carland Bridge Scheme opens

Roads Minister Conor Murphy MP, MLA today opened the A29 Carland Bridge scheme with the First Minister Rt. Hon. Peter D. Robinson MLA and deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness MP, MLA.
~ Wednesday, 1 December 2010

Commenting on the scheme, the Minister said: “I welcome the opportunity to be here on site today to officially open this £4.7million road improvement scheme. The A29 Carland realignment is part of a designated corridor linking Armagh to Coleraine and this long awaited road improvement has been completed ahead of schedule.

"Investment in road improvements, such as this important project, meets the Executive's strategic objectives in terms of promoting economic growth, competitiveness and balanced regional development.

“This scheme has been well received by the local community and motorists who use this important link corridor. This scheme has now removed a notorious bottleneck on the A29 route between Dungannon and Cookstown and will improve road safety and reduce delays on this important part of the roads network.”

The main objectives of the scheme were to remove the existing traffic bottleneck on the A29 at Carland, improve road safety along this section of trunk road, reduce journey travel times along the A29 Link Corridor, and improve the quality of life for local residents through a significant reduction in passing traffic.

Speaking at the launch, Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness said: “The A29 is an important part of the north/south roads network to the west of Lough Neagh linking Armagh to Coleraine. The local community around Carland has long awaited the delivery of this project as have the travelling public. I welcome the opportunity to be here today to take part in the official opening and I think the benefits of the scheme will be appreciated for generations to come. This project is indeed an example of the Executive implementing improvements today to meet tomorrow’s demands.”

First Minister Peter Robinson said: “The Executive is committed to developing a modern and efficient highway network this bridge scheme is another example of the Executive making a difference to people’s lives. Investment in the A29 will further assist in promoting economic growth, improving connectivity and consequently, our competitiveness.

"Completion of this scheme demonstrates the Executive’s commitment to delivering for the people of Northern Ireland, through infrastructure improvements, and with the added benefit of supporting the construction industry.”

Notes to editors:

1. The contract for construction of the new section of trunk road at Carland Bridge, Dungannon was awarded to Fox Building and Engineering Ltd.
2. Media queries to: DRD Press Office, Tel 028 90 540887. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.