Speaking ahead of this evening's meeting between Roads Service and Fermanagh District Council, the Minister outlined a number of major and minor schemes taking place in the area. The Minister was pleased to note that a new bridge is to be provided at Belcoo in conjunction with Cavan County Council and the National Roads Authority.
He 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 £3.5million on various road maintenance projects in the Fermanagh area this year. A major resurfacing scheme is to be carried out this year will be on the A4 Belfast Road between Tamlaght and Lisbellaw."
Speaking at the meeting, Roads Service's Divisional Roads Manager Mr Pat Doherty said there were significant challenges to be faced.
He said: "The Investment Strategy anticipates a large programme of trunk road improvements over the next 10 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 three new schemes of benefit to the Fermanagh area. They were A4 Enniskillen Southern Bypass, the A4 Fivemiletown Bypass and a range of carriageway improvements, including 2+1 overtaking sections, on the A32 between Enniskillen and Omagh.
“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 Fermanagh Council 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. Updated information will be available on our website and radio traffic reports."
Notes to Editors:
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