Speaking ahead of this evening's meeting between Roads Service and Lisburn City Council, the Minister outlined a number of schemes taking place in the city council area.
He said: "A junction improvement on the B154 at Quarterland Road / Budore Road, Hannahstown is nearing completion. This scheme will improve sightlines at this junction and provide right turn pockets for north and southbound traffic leaving the Quarterland Road. Additional schemes planned for the current financial year include replacement of an existing roundabout with a signalised junction at McKinstry Road / Wilmar Road, Lisburn; and road safety improvements at A49 Saintfield Road / B6 Saintfield Road junction."
The Minister also said that 2007/08 had been a successful year for structural maintenance, after a strong bid by Roads Service for additional funds led to more than £17million of extra funding being allocated to this important function.
Minister continued: "The additional resources mean that around £75million has been invested in the structural maintenance of our roads last year and it is planned to spend a further £200million over the next three years. The maintenance of surfaces and underlying structures of roads and footways is essential for the social and economic well-being in all areas in the north.
"This year in the Council area we plan to spend £7.2million on various projects. The Department will continue with its carriageway and footway resurfacing programme plus drainage improvement across the Borough. In addition, other safety schemes will be undertaken such as traffic calming measures at Magheralave Road, Harmony Hill and Skyline Drive; collision remedial works on the Hillhall Road plus Old Ballynahinch Road and street lighting upgrades in several parts of the City."
Speaking at the meeting, Roads Service's Deputy Divisional Roads Manager Kevin Monaghan said there were significant challenges to be faced.
He said: "The Investment Strategy anticipates a large programme of trunk road improvements over the next ten years, with investment totalling £3.1billion. Roads Service is currently considering how this work will be programmed and delivered.
"Roads Service has also noted the recent decision on the reform of public administration and will be considering the revised working arrangements and structural changes that will need to be agreed and implemented by 2011.
"Despite these challenges, Roads Service will continue to concentrate on scheme delivery in the Lisburn City Council area.
"To minimise the disruption arising from any works we will also be making every effort to give motorists advance warning of roadworks through signage and information prior to works. There will be updated information on our website and radio traffic reports."
Notes to Editors:
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