Regional Development Minister Danny Kennedy has set out Roads Service’s progress on investment totalling £1.7million for maintenance schemes in the Carrickfergus Borough Council area this year.

Speaking ahead of this evening's meeting between Roads Service and Carrickfergus Borough Council, the Minister said: "A wide range of improvement and maintenance schemes are planned or being progressed in the Carrickfergus Borough Council area. These include a major public realm improvement scheme for Carrickfergus town centre which is scheduled to commence early January 2012.

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"This £2.4million project, being jointly funded by DSD, DRD and Carrickfergus Borough Council will enhance the commercial heart of the town through provision of high quality street furniture, street lighting and measures to improve traffic flow. Throughout formulation of the scheme, stakeholders have been fully consulted and briefed. This will continue during the construction phase so potential disruption to traders and the general public is minimised.

"Currently, rollout of the Safer Route to Schools initiative is continuing with works at Woodburn primary now nearing completion.

"The priorities and constraints placed on funding levels by Budget 2010 mean it is likely the programme of local transport and safety measures in 2012/13 and 2013/14 will be under considerable pressure. While current indications are that funding for resurfacing and minor improvement works will be very limited next year, I remain committed to delivering these important schemes as resources permit. The autumn round of Council meetings is a timely opportunity for Councils to discuss potential schemes and priorities for incoming and future years."

(CD)