Speaking ahead of this evening's meeting between Roads Service and Limavady Borough Council, the Minister outlined a number of major and minor schemes taking place in the area.
The Minister said: "It is proposed to realign and widen the Drumacarney Bridge on the Barnailt Road just south of Limavady while a scheme to provide a right turn facility on Ballyquin Road at its junction with Ballyavelin Road is also planned; the provision of bus lay-bys and enhanced footway links to Ardgarvan Cottages will be included in this scheme."
The design of a traffic calming scheme on Gortgare Road in Greysteel is almost complete. Subject to consultation this scheme will introduce a number of measures including junction platforms and speed cushions.
"Two primary schools near Dungiven have been included in the ‘Speed Management at Rural Schools’ programme. Signs with flashing lights, which operate at times pupils enter or leave school, will be provided along with red surfacing near St. Paul's, Dernaflaw, and St. Peter's & St. Paul's, Foreglen,'' he said.
Mr Murphy 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.
Minister continued: "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 Limavady area we plan to spend £2.2million on various projects. These include a £200,000 resurfacing scheme on the A6 Glenshane Roads at Oville, a £230,000 resurfacing of the Greystone Road in Limavady and a substantial programme of surface dressing on rural roads."
Speaking at the meeting, Roads Service's Principal Engineer, Deidre Mackle, said there were significant challenges to be faced.
She said: "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 Limavady area.
"To minimise the disruption arising from any works we will also be making every effort to give motorists advance warning of road-works 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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