The Department for Infrastructure has provided an update for road maintenance and improvement works to Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council members.

The update centred on the years 2023/24 and 2024/25 and was delivered by Divisional Roads Manager Des McFarlane.

"Currently, a full street lighting repair service will remain in effect during 2024/25," he said.

"Over the next year, in the Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council area, we plan to improve the pedestrian crossing facilities at McKinstry Road/ Derriaghy Road/ The Cutts junction with the introduction of staggered Toucan crossings.

"Retention and improvement to the shared use footway which will link to the proposed cycling facilities in the area."

He continued: "Recently, we completed carriageway and footway resurfacing schemes on Hillhall Road, Lisburn and Dromore Road, Hillsborough. Additional resurfacing schemes currently being completed in the council area, include Magheradartin Road, Hillsborough, Hillhead Road, Lisburn and Barnfield Road, Derriaghy.

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"Other recently completed projects, including street lighting upgrade schemes for Iniscarn Estate, Granville and Ballynahinch Road, Annahilt."

Mr McFarlane also stated that Northern Ireland's road network is the Department's largest and most valuable strategic infrastructure asset and there is still more to do to improve and protect it.

The 'challenges' of the 2024-25 budget were also acknowledged but Mr McFarlane affirmed the Department's commitment to advancing local transport, safety schemes and maintenance programs aimed at improving road safety.

He said: "The Department has developed a Northern Ireland wide Active Travel Delivery Plan that includes an update of our policies and design guidance for Active Travel as well as network plans for our larger towns and cities. Consultation on the plan opened on Wednesday and will close on 28 February 2025.

"In the meantime, we are continuing to deliver improved Active Travel schemes and have completed pedestrian measures at Glen Road, Glenavy."

He added: "Infrastructure Minister John O’Dowd announced in July that the A1 upgrade scheme is moving to the procurement stage, with further advancement contingent upon Business Case approval, completion of statutory procedures, and securing funding.

"These projects will bring significant benefits to both the local community and commuters in the Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council area."