Speaking ahead of this evening's meeting between Roads Service and Newry and Mourne District Council, the minister outlined a number of major and minor schemes taking place in the area.
Mr Murphy said: "The A1 Beech Hill to Cloghogue scheme is being progressed via a Public Private Partnership. The contract to design, build, finance and operate this scheme was signed in December 2007. A considerable amount of advanced works including drainage, topsoil strip and fencing were undertaken prior to the signing.
"The A1 Beech Hill to Cloghogue scheme follows the completion of the A1/N1 Cloghogue to the border scheme (and on to Ballymascanlon, Dundalk) which was opened to traffic on 2 August 2007."
The minister also said that 2007/08 had been a successful year for structural maintence, 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.
"This year in the Newry and Mourne area we plan to spend £5.8million on various projects. It is hoped to complete minor works schemes at Concession Road, Cullaville at Conlig Primary School and on Rostrevor Road, Hilltown. These are in addition to the ongoing extensive programme of smaller local transport and safety measures, as well as resurfacing and surface dressing schemes. It is also planned to introduce parking meters in Newry city centre this summer."
Schemes which have already been completed include visibility improvements on Concession Road at Ward’s corner, Cullaville; Mill Road, Kilkeel and on Anthony’s Road, Kilkeel. Work is progressing on Dundalk Road/Cullyhanna Road, Newtownhamilton. Schemes on the Tandragee Road, Jerretspass and at Ashtree Hill and Glen Hill, Newry are substantially complete.
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 10 years, with investment totalling three billion pounds. 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 Newry and Mourne 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," said Mr Ellison.
Notes to Editors:
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