The south Down area is set to benefit from a £5.1m roads investment, announced by NI Transport Minister Conor Murphy earlier this week.

The Minister met with Down District Council to outline progress on a number of major and minor schemes taking place in the area.

Minister Murphy said: "This year in the Down area we plan to spend £5.1 million on various projects; on the Shore Road, Strangford; Killyleagh Road/Crossgar Road, Crossgar; Commons Road, Ballykinlar and at Magheralone Road, Annacloy subject to successful land agreements or vesting."

These schemes are in addition to the ongoing programmes of smaller local transport and safety measures, as well as resurfacing and surface dressing schemes, according to the Minister.

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"Schemes which have already been completed include drainage, reconstruction and resurfacing of a footway at Harmony Road/Windmill Street, Ballynahinch and sight distance improvements at Clanmaghery Road, Tyrella. A new length of footway linking Drumaness Village to the Newcastle Road is currently under construction," said Mr Murphy.

The Minister also commented on his department's successful year, and welcomed the increased budget, which as been allocated to the DRD by the Stormont Executive team.

Roads Service's Divisional Roads Acting Manager Bertie Ellison said there were significant challenges to be faced: "Roads Service has also noted the recent decision on the reform of public administration and will be considering the revised working arrangements and structural changes that will need to be agreed and implemented by 2011."

"Despite these challenges, Roads Service will continue to concentrate on scheme delivery in the Down area," Mr Ellison added.

(PR/JM)