Northern Ireland Roads Minister Conor Murphy has said work on the A1 Beech Hill to Cloghogue dual carriageway, in south Down, will be complete by winter 2010.

Mr Murphy, meeting with Newry and Mourne District Council, detailed progress on a range of projects, totalling more than £5.8m, in the region.

Speaking on the Beech Hill to Cloghogue scheme, which will provide 12km of dual, the Minister said: "Construction work within this scheme has continued throughout the year including earthworks, service diversions and a number of major structures. Of these structures one is completed and opened to traffic on the Glen Road.

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"The realignment on the Cloghanramer Road has also been completed. The Beech Hill to Cloghogue scheme is programmed for completion in winter 2010."

Discussing other projects, Mr Murphy said the realignment of the A29 Dundalk Road / B135 Cullyhanna Road, Newtownhamilton would significantly improve sightlines and forward visibility.

Road Service’s Network Maintenance Manager Arnold Hamilton has welcomed the continued investment in local transport and safety measures in the Newry and Mourne Council area.

However, Mr Hamilton said the Roads Service faces some very significant challenges over the next few years as it deals with the ongoing needs for road maintenance, as well as the merging of local council authorities.

(PR)