A major roads infrastructure link has been officially opened by the Roads Minister Conor Murphy - and has also been hailed as a boost for the beleaguered building trade by the First Minister.

Conor Murphy cut the ribbon on the A29 Carland Bridge scheme along with the First Minister Peter Robinson and the Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness.

Commenting on the scheme, Minister Murphy said: "I welcome the opportunity to be here on site today to officially open this £4.7m road improvement scheme.

"The A29 Carland realignment is part of a designated corridor linking Armagh to Coleraine and this long awaited road improvement has been completed ahead of schedule.

"Investment in road improvements, such as this important project, meets the Executive's strategic objectives in terms of promoting economic growth, competitiveness and balanced regional development," he said.

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Also commenting, First Minister Peter Robinson said: "Completion of this scheme demonstrates the Executive's commitment to 'delivering' for the people of Northern Ireland, through infrastructure improvements, and with the added benefit of supporting the construction industry.

"The Executive is committed to developing a modern and efficient highway network this bridge scheme is another example of the Executive making a difference to people's lives.

"Investment in the A29 will further assist in promoting economic growth, improving connectivity and consequently, our competitiveness."

The main objectives of the scheme were to remove the existing traffic bottleneck on the A29 at Carland, improve road safety along this section of trunk road, reduce journey travel times along the A29 Link Corridor, and improve the quality of life for local residents through a significant reduction in passing traffic.

Also speaking at the launch, Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness said: "The A29 is an important part of the north/south roads network to the west of Lough Neagh linking Armagh to Coleraine.

"The local community around Carland has long awaited the delivery of this project as have the travelling public. I welcome the opportunity to be here today to take part in the official opening and I think the benefits of the scheme will be appreciated for generations to come. This project is indeed an example of the Executive implementing improvements today to meet tomorrow's demands."

(GK/BMcC)