NI Transport Minister Conor Murphy has welcomed the successful completion of Roads Service's 2009/2010 programme of works and the planned £1million in the Carrickfergus area this year.

"A range of local schemes have been delivered successfully by Roads Service in the past year," said Minister Murphy

"While the tightening public expenditure environment in the year ahead will be challenging, Roads Service remains committed to ensure it can make best use of our resources and continue to deliver quality public services.

"Preparatory work is continuing to dual the Greenisland section of the A2 between Ravenhill and Silverstream. This scheme will relieve congestion and provide a continuous four lane road between Carrickfergus and Whiteabbey."

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A geotechnical investigation was completed in 2009 and an archaeological investigation is being carried out this year. The start date for this scheme will depend upon the availability of funding in future years.

The Minister added: "During 2009/10, minor works completed included repair work at Slaughterford Bridge, Whitehead and to the seawall at Rhanbuoy Park, Carrickfergus. In addition, the rolling programme of principal structural inspections continued. This included bridges at New Line/ Woodburn Reservoir North, Knockagh Road and the Whitehead railway footbridge.

"Further road safety improvements have also been delivered in the Borough. The completed schemes include provision of high friction surfacing and enhanced warning signage on the A2 at Larne Road/Downshire Road; pelican crossing provision on Victoria Road at Elizabeth Avenue and further addition to the Safer Route to Schools programme at St Nicholas' Primary."

(NS/BMcC)