A third lane on Belfast's M1 Westlink opened this morning, with the Roads Minister predicting a significant improvement of traffic flow in and around the city.

Work on the entire scheme is expected to be complete by early next year, and Roads Service's Westlink Project Manager Roy Spiers said his team is committed to making road space available to traffic as soon as possible.

He said: "The opening of the third lane will provide additional road space and even though this is the busiest time of the year, road users should notice an improvement in journey times."

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Road users have been reminded that while the three lanes will be opened to traffic the M1/westlink between Stockman's lane and Divis Street remains a construction site and road works will be continuing along this stretch of road over the coming months.

Further lane restrictions will be required to complete outstanding construction works. However, we will where possible restrict these to off-peak times.

Minister Conor Murphy has encouraged drivers using the M1/Westlink to take extra care until they become familiar with the new road layout, and the changes to the speed limits.

The present traffic restrictions will also remain in place on Broadway Roundabout.

(PR)