Speaking ahead of this evening's meeting between Roads Service and Strabane District Council, the Minister outlined a number of major and minor schemes taking place in the area. The Minister was pleased to note that publication of the preferred corridor for the A5 dualling was expected by the end of the year.
The Minister said: "2007/08 has 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. 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.
"We plan to spend £2.6million on various road maintenance projects in the Strabane District Council area this year. A significant resurfacing scheme to be carried out this year will be on the A5 Melmount road, north of Bellspark Road."
Speaking at the meeting, Roads Service's Divisional Roads Manager Pat Doherty said there were significant challenges to be faced.
"The Investment Strategy anticipates a large programme of trunk road improvements over the next ten years, with investment totalling £3.1billion pounds. Roads Service is currently considering how this work will be programmed and delivered. The recently published plan had major schemes of benefit to the Strabane District Council area. By far the biggest challenge facing us is the A5 dualling."
Last month Roads Service carried out a series of public information days at four locations along the A5 route, at Ballygawley, Omagh, Strabane and Derry.
"The objective of these days was to raise awareness of the project and seek public comments. The information gathered will be used to help select the preferred corridor,” said Mr Doherty.
“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 service delivery in the Strabane District Council area.”
To minimise the disruption arising from any works Roads Service will also be making every effort to give motorists advance warning of roadworks through signage and information prior to works. Updated information will be available on our website and radio traffic reports.
Notes to Editors:
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