Regional Development Minister Conor Murphy officially opened the new £4 million Skeoge Link Road in Derry yesterday.

The new two kilometre dual carriageway completes the orbital route between Buncrana Road and the Foyle Bridge.

Speaking at the official opening, the Minister highlighted the importance of the new dual carriageway. He said: "I welcome the benefits the new road will provide, not only in reduced journey times around the north of the city, but also to the residents of Galliagh and Shantallow who will see a reduction in traffic through their area together with the environmental improvements associated with lower traffic volumes."

-- Advertisement --

The new dual carriageway includes two roundabouts which will facilitate future planned developments on both sides of the Skeoge Link. Pedestrian and cycling facilities are also included along the entire length of the new road.

The Minister acknowledged the important contribution of landowners and developers for the transfer of a large portion of the land required for the new road and also for financial contribution to be made towards improved infrastructure and public transport as the area develops.

The Minister added: "The provision of this new Skeoge Link and the recent completion of the final phase of the dualling of the Crescent Link demonstrate my Department's commitment to the improvement of the strategic road network in the northwest to facilitate safe and efficient traffic movement in and around the city of Derry."

(VB/JM)