Transport Minister launches updated trafficwatchni.com

Transport Minister Conor Murphy today launched an updated version of the Roads Service website www.trafficwatchni.com.

The site provides real time traffic information to the public and new features include a journey planner, an interactive map showing the location of current and planned roadworks, additional camera images, and the facility to register to receive e-mail alerts when abnormal traffic congestion occurs in the Greater Belfast Area.

Speaking about the enhanced website the Minister said: I welcome the launch of this enhanced website which provides reliable and timely information on traffic conditions.

I encourage people to visit www.trafficwatchni.com and to use the information on traffic conditions in order to make informed decisions about the best route, time and mode of transport for their journeys.  If people use this site before setting out they can not only plan the best approach for their own journey, but they can also help to minimise congestion. ”

Notes to editors:

1. www.trafficwatchni.com can also be accessed through www.nidirect.gov.uk
2. Roads Service records show that over the 12 month period April 2009 to April 2010 there were over 250,000 ‘visits’ to the trafficwatch website.
3. In addition to the informing individual members of the public, the trafficwatch website is a valuable source of information to the news media carrying reports of traffic and travel information.
4. Media queries should be directed to the Department for Regional DevelopmentPress office on 02890 540817. Out of office hours please contact the duty press officer on 07699 715440 and your call will be returned.