Alliance East Antrim MLA and Regional Development spokesperson, Stewart Dickson, has said that the public must prepare for the beginning of road works on the A2 at Greenisland.

Work to widen the 2.2 miles stretch of road will be undertaken from April 2013 until the summer of 2015.

Mr Dickson said: "This is such a major project that it will inevitably cause traffic disruption between the M5 roundabout at Whiteabbey and Carrickfergus.

"Because of the volume of vehicles using the route each day, there are limited opportunities to provide alternative routes and so construction will take place in a manner that facilitates road traffic along the A2.

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"One lane of traffic will be open in both directions between 6am and 8pm Monday to Friday, 8am and 7pm on Saturday and 10am to 7pm on Sunday. Motorists must be aware that these lanes will be narrower than usual and will be subject to a reduced speed limit.

"I have been assured that signs giving advice about road closures and traffic arrangements will be in place for at least one week prior to any changes.

"I encourage commuters to consider alternative routes and methods of travel, including car share, but particularly the train. I have recently spoken to senior management at Translink and it is now clear that extra carriages will be added on busier services.

"Commuters travelling by train can also take advantage of increased Park & Ride capacity in Carrickfergus as Roads Services has changed the existing St. Brides Street Car Park from Pay & Display to a free over-flow Park & Ride.

(CD/GK)