Roads Minister Conor Murphy has welcomed progress on a £2.2m investment in the Castlereagh Borough Council area.

Speaking ahead of a meeting with Roads Service and the local council, Mr Murphy said: "Preparatory work on the proposed widening of the A55 at Knock Road is ongoing. This preliminary but essential work comprises conducting surveys, considering options, traffic modelling and road design.

"This work will facilitate commencement of the statutory processes which include preparation of an Environmental Statement, a Direction Order and a Vesting Order which should be published for public comment in 2009.

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"Potential schemes have also been identified following completion of a Route Management Study along the A23 Ballygowan Road. Similar studies are planned for the A24 Saintfield/Ballynahinch Road plus the A55 Outer Ring between Tillysburn and the M1 Interchange at Stockman's Lane.

"As schemes are identified they will continue to be prioritised and progressed subject to the availability of funding.

"Other schemes which have been completed this financial year include dropped kerbs/mobility ramps at Dunlady Road/Court and Kings Road; traffic calming at Wynchurch Road and street lighting provision at Sperrin Drive/Park and Wanstead Road/Crescent," added the Minister.

Road Service's Deputy Divisional Roads Manager, Kevin Monaghan welcomed the continued investment in local transport and safety measures in the Castlereagh Borough Council area.

These include traffic calming schemes, measures to assist cyclists and pedestrians, and a programme of school travel and safety projects.

(PR/JM)