13 June 2005

ROADS SERVICE INVESTS OVER £400,000 IN CARRICKFERGUS

Investment totalling over £400,000 is planned for the Carrickfergus area this year, said Deputy Divisional Roads Manager, Tom McCourt.

Mr McCourt told Carrickfergus Borough Council that this level of investment is indicative of the substantial capital investment throughout Northern Ireland, during a presentation of the Roads Service Annual Report.

Among the proposals for 2005 / 06 are the completion of a new footpath and footbridge on the Slaughterford Road, Whitehead, and the repair of the Barn Halt footbridge. This work builds on the substantial progress made last year, when approximately £500,000 was spent on road improvements.

Mr McCourt welcomed the continued investment in local transport and safety measures in Carrickfergus, including proposals for a number of pedestrian measures and the provision of a cycle route along Taylor’s Avenue.

"Most road users appreciate that making significant improvements can’t be done without some disruption to traffic. Roads Service is making every effort to keep disruption to a minimum by completing as many major schemes as possible during the summer months, when there is generally less traffic and contractors can take advantage of more daylight hours. Where possible, works will be planned to avoid peak travel times on key routes," he said.

"Roads Service will be making every effort to give motorists advance warning of roadworks through signage and information, prior to works. Also, there will be updated information on our website and radio traffic reports.’’

Mr McCourt expressed his thanks to Carrickfergus Council for its contribution to the recent preliminary public consultation on the proposed improvement works to the A2 Shore Road at Greenisland.

NOTES TO EDITORS:

Media queries to: Emma Flynn Davies, Press Office, Department for Regional Development, Tel: 028 9054 0007

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