Speaking ahead of tonight’s meeting between Roads Service and Newtownabbey Borough Council, the Minister said: “Significant progress continues to be made on major road widening works along the M2 corridor. The Hightown Bridge was reopened to traffic four months ahead of schedule on 3 September 2008. Similar bridge replacements over the M2 are progressing well at Collin and Longlands bridges. Both of these bridges are due to be completed early in 2009.
"At the same time, work is continuing towards completion of works to improve the M1/Westlink. This capital project is on target to be finalised in early 2009 when its full potential will be realised. Following the opening of the Broadway Underpass in July, work is now nearing completion on the Broadway Roundabout.
"Preparatory work on the proposed widening of the A2 Shore Road at Greenisland is ongoing. Draft Statutory Orders to provide a continous four lane road between Carrickfergus and the M5 at Whiteabbey were published in March 2007 and a Public Inquiry was held the following October. Following consideration of the Inspectors Report, a Departmental Statement was issued. This was followed by publication of the Statutory Notices, the Notice to Proceed and Direction Order on 1 October 2008. Roads Service will further develop the road design and carry out an economic appraisal prior to making the final Statutory Notice, the Vesting Order in 2009/10. Subject to the availability of funding and awarding of the works contract in 2010/11 it is anticipated that construction will be completed by 2012/13.
"Other schemes which have been completed this financial year include collision remedial works at Monkstown Road/Doagh Road and Rushpark Roundabout, central hatching and right turn pocket pocket provision at Doagh Road, Ballyclare and traffic calming at Straid village and along Bracken Drive.”
At the meeting Road Service’s Divisional Roads Manager, Tom McCourt welcomed the continued investment in local transport and safety measures in the Newtownabbey Borough Council area. These include traffic calming schemes, measures to assist cyclists and pedestrians and a programme of school travel and safety projects.
Mr McCourt said: "Roads Service faces some very significant challenges over the next few years as we deal with the ongoing needs for road maintenance, while progressing a demanding programme of strategic road improvements. We are also contributing to the work being led by the Department of the Environment, on the implementation of decisions arising from the Review of Public Administration, so that changes to our structure or working arrangements can be planned and implemented smoothly.''
"Despite these challenges, Roads Service will continue to concentrate on scheme delivery in the Newtownabbey Borough Council area. We will minimise the disruption that may arise from our works and we will give motorists advance warning of roadworks through signage and information prior to works. There will also be updated information on our website and radio traffic reports,'' added Mr McCourt.
NOTES TO EDITORS:
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