The proposed closure of a vital thorougfare is causing problems in Newtownabbey.

The Hightown Road bridge from Glengormley to Mallusk and on to link with north Belfast is to close soon for a full year as a new, permanent structure over the M2 motorway is built.

A short period of temporary closure is about to come to an end, but has graphically illustrated to local people what lies in store when the 12-month closure takes place in 2008.

However, after substantial lobbying from local representatives, the Department for Regional Development have now given a commitment to look again at the possibility of providing a temporary bridge during long-term closure of the Hightown Road.

The route is due to be shut for up to 12 months from early next year while motorway widening and bridge replacement works are carried out. However, that plan has sparked outrage among Glengormley residents, business owners and politicians, who fear that long-term closure and lengthy traffic diversions via Sandyknowes will have a serious detrimental impact on the area.

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Hundreds of people attended a recent public meeting and called on Roads Service and contractors Highway Management Construction to install a single carriageway temporary bridge over the M2 during the year-long closure.

At first, Roads Service officials claimed erecting a Bailey bridge at the site had been considered, but would not be possible.

However, following a meeting between a cross-party political delegation from the Glengormley area and Regional Development Minister Conor Murphy at Stormont this week, Department officials have now agreed to look again at the temporary bridge option.

"This meeting has provided me with a useful opportunity to learn at first hand about the problems facing local residents during the bridge closure and to discuss the temporary traffic management arrangements," Mr Murphy commented.

"I can confirm that the Hightown Road will reopen to traffic on 23 November - one week earlier than planned and it is not due to be closed again until early February 2008.

“During this time my officials will be considering the feasibility of providing a temporary bridge during the planned one-year closure. They will also be reviewing the traffic management arrangements, emergency access requirements and the need for additional buses for school children," he said.

(BMcC)