Three key road projects across Northern Ireland have been identified as priority schemes.

The Strategic Road Improvement (SRI) schemes, including the A1 Junctions Phase 2, A4 Enniskillen Bypass and A32 Cornamuck projects are set to be progressed.

Infrastructure Minister John O'Dowd has pledged his Department's commitment to the schemes, which will now be taken forward as a priority during 2022/23, in preparation for future procurement.

Speaking about the schemes, Minister O'Dowd said: "The A1 has long been identified as in need of safety improvements and Phase 2 will bring further safety enhancements with the closing of gaps along the central reserve between Hillsborough Roundabout and Loughbrickland, the construction of four new compact grade separated junctions and all other minor adjoining road junctions  either closed or reconfigured to a left-in left-out arrangement.

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"Enniskillen Southern Bypass will consist of 2 km of new single carriageway, with 2+1 overtaking opportunities and an upgrade to a section of the existing A509 linking this to the A4 Sligo Road. It also includes a footway/cycleway link along the full length of the scheme.

"The 1.4 km A32 Cornamuck scheme is one of a number of schemes included in an A32 improvement strategy and will enhance connectivity between Omagh and Enniskillen and serve the new acute hospital in Enniskillen.

"I have already made clear my commitment to progress flagship projects such as the A5 Western Transport Corridor, subject to completion of the statutory procedures, as well as York Street Interchange. Today's announcement is the next step in continuing to develop our strategic road network to improve road safety, enhance access to vital services, support economic development and reduce congestion in our towns and cities."