£4.1million to be invested in Ards

Regional Development Minister Conor Murphy has announced a £4.1million investment for the Ards area this year.

Speaking ahead of this evening's meeting between Roads Service and Ards Borough Council, the Minister outlined progress on a number of major and minor schemes taking place in the area.

The Minister said: "This year in the Ards area we plan to spend £4.1million on various projects; Rowreagh Road/Gransha Road, Kircubbin; Comber Road, Ballygowan at the Brae; Saintfield Road/Ravara Road, Ballygowan and on Moss Road/Ballykeigle Road, Ballygowan subject to successful land agreements or vesting. These are in addition to the ongoing extensive programme of smaller local transport and safety measures, as well as resurfacing and surface dressing schemes.”

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. "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.

"Schemes already on site include Abbey Road/Woburn Road, Carrowdore and Bowtown Road, Newtownards. Work continues on the two major road schemes in Newtownards, the A20 Southern Distributor and the Fredrick Street Link, both due to be completed within twelve months,” the Minster added.

Speaking at the meeting, Roads Service's Divisional Roads Manager (Acting) Bertie Ellison 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. 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 Ards 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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