M1/Westlink third lane opens

Roads Service has announced the opening of the M1/Westlink third lane to traffic on Monday 1 December 2008.

This is the next significant change in the management of the traffic through the works site as the works progress towards completion early next year.

Roads Service's Westlink Project Manager Roy Spiers said: “Roads Service and the contractor HMC have, throughout the works, committed to making road space available to traffic as soon as it is possible to do so and I am pleased with this next step in the project. The opening of the third lane will provide additional road space and even though this is the busiest time of the year, road users should notice an improvement in journey times.”

Road users are reminded that while the three lanes will be opened to traffic the M1/westlink between Stockman’s lane and Divis Street remains a construction site and road works will be continuing along this stretch of road over the coming months. Further lane restrictions will be required to complete outstanding construction works. However, we will where possible restrict these to off-peak times.

Roads Service would encourage drivers using the M1/Westlink to take extra care until they become familiar with the new road layout and the changes to the speed limits.

Drivers are also reminded that the M1/Westlink remains a construction site

The present traffic restrictions will also remain in place on Broadway Roundabout.

Notes to Editors:

1. Work began on the M1/Westlink Scheme in January 2006 and the overall works remain on target for completion early in 2009. The M1/Westlink Scheme is part of a Design, Build, Finance and Operate (DBFO) contract which is being funded through a Public Private Partnership. The works are being undertaken by HMC, a joint venture which comprises local contractors; Graham Construction and Northstone as well as German contractor Bilfinger Berger.
2. Media queries to: Emma Flynn Davies, Press Office, Department for Regional Development, Tel: 028 9054 0372