Northern Ireland's Roads Minister has welcomed progress on a £13.2m investment scheme underway across Belfast.

Conor Murphy said preliminary work is continuing on a strategic road proposal to widen a 2.5km stretch of the A2 Sydenham Bypass.

This scheme has been designed to widen the existing dual two lane carriageway to a dual three lane carriageway.

A number of design options are now being considered following the initial consultation process.

Mr Murphy said Roads Service was working closely with the Planning Service on proposals for of a new junction to serve the Titanic Quarter, in the east of the city.

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The high-profile M1/Westlink scheme was officially opened in March this year, some six months ahead of schedule.

The Minister said significant improvements have also been completed on the M2 to provide three lanes in each direction, between Sandyknowes and Greencastle junctions.

"Once again, major milestones were delivered ahead of programme and the overall scheme officially opened in June, some two and a half months ahead of programme," he said.

Norman Chambers, Principal Engineer with Road Service’s Eastern Division, said a large trunk of varied works are currently under consideration for the Belfast area.

He said development of a major works proposal for the A55 at Knock Road is currently progressing.

"Depending on the outcome of that consultation the department may decide to hold a public inquiry to allow a decision to be made on implementation of the scheme," said Mr Chambers.

(PR/KMcA)