7 August 2001

ROADS SERVICE WARN OF FURTHER TRAFFIC DISRUPTIONS IN BELFAST

DRD Roads Service has warned motorists in Belfast to prepare for further disruption on the roads over the next two weekends as essential work is carried out on the M2 motorway.

The disruption is the result of a £650,000 resurfacing scheme that is being carried out on the northbound carriageway of the M2, between York Street and the Fortwilliam Interchange.

A spokesperson for the Roads Service explained: "The existing road surface had reached the end of its useful life and a considerable amount of patching had been carried out during the past two years, to keep the surface in a safe condition.

"The work was deliberately planned to take place over three weekends in August, to reduce the disruption to the travelling public and commercial traffic. However, it is simply not possible to close a carriageway that carries 50,000 northbound vehicles during an average weekday, without causing considerable congestion."

This weekend, resurfacing work is due to commence at 8pm on Friday and continue until 6am on Monday. The diversion will be removed in time for the morning rush hour on Monday.

During the period of the works, the following roads will be closed: M2 northbound, between York Street and Fortwilliam; and M3 Lagan Bridge – westbound lanes leading to the M2.

The diversion route will be signposted via York Road and the A2 Shore Road, to the Fortwilliam Interchange, where it will be possible to rejoin the M2 motorway. Traffic entering Belfast from the Holywood direction will be required to leave the Sydenham By-pass at the Bridge End Fly Over and follow the normal road signs to the M3 and M2 northbound.

Drivers should expect significant traffic congestion, particularly on Saturday in the Dunbar Link and York Street areas. Those who cannot avoid these areas should allow additional time for their journeys.

Staff from Roads Service’s Traffic Information and Control Centre will monitor traffic flows using their network of CCTV cameras. Traffic signal timings will be altered as necessary, to minimise the effects of the inevitable traffic congestion. Electronic message signs will also be used to inform drivers of the closures.

The spokesperson said: "Roads Service would appeal to all drivers to show special consideration to others while the diversion is in force."

Regular updates on traffic conditions in the city centre can be obtained by telephoning Roads Service traffic information on 08457 123321.