Speaking ahead of tonight’s meeting between Roads Service and Lisburn City Council, the Minister said: “Significant progress continues to be made 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.
"At the same time, an important package of seven graded junction upgrades is underway along the A1 corridor. Like the M1/Westlink project, these improvements are being funded by the private sector under a Public Private Partnership (PPP) using a Design, Build, Finance and Operate (DBFO) form of contract.
"Three junctions have been recently completed with a further four to be delivered by December 2009, including that at Dromore Road, Hillsborough. This contract also includes maintenance of the M1 motorway between Sprucefield and Dungannon, the A1 between Sprucefield and the border and the A101 Sprucefield Link. Further construction works include a scheme to dual the A1 road between Beech Hill and Cloghogue. The upgrade of this section will, in turn, complete provision of an uninterrupted dual carriageway between Lisburn and the border.
"Other schemes which have been completed this financial year include safety barrier provision/replacement at Thiepval Road and Colinglen Road; a junction improvement on the B154 at Quarterland Road/Budore Road, Hannahstown; a collision remedial scheme at Hillhall Road, Hannahstown and parapet replacement at Young's Bridge, Lisburn.”
At the meeting, Road Service’s Divisional Roads Manager, Tom McCourt welcomed the continued investment in local transport and safety measures in the Lisburn City 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 Lisburn City 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:
- Media queries to: Emma Flynn Davies, Press Office, Department for Regional Development, 02890 540372
