Council receives an update on road infrastructure projects for Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council 2024
Date published:
Members of the Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council received an update from the Department for Infrastructure regarding road maintenance and improvement works for the years 2023/24 and 2024/25.
During a meeting on Monday, 18 November 2024, Divisional Roads Manager Mr Des McFarlane addressed the council, stating:
“Northern Ireland’s road network is our largest and most valuable strategic infrastructure asset and delivers for people every day to go about their daily lives. It is recognised that there is more to do to improve and protect the vital road network and the Department is maximising its resources to deliver positive impacts. The Department’s 2024/25 budget allocation is challenging, however we will continue to prioritise essential frontline services.”
Mr McFarlane acknowledged the challenges posed by the 2024-25 budget but affirmed the Department's commitment to advancing local transport, safety schemes, and maintenance programs aimed at improving road safety.
Mr McFarlane continued:
“Currently, a full street lighting repair service will remain in effect during 2024/25. Over the next year, in the Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council area, we plan to improve the pedestrian crossing facilities at McKinstry Road/ Derriaghy Road/ The Cutts junction with the introduction of staggered Toucan crossings. Retention and improvement to the shared use footway which will link to the proposed cycling facilities in the area.
"Recently, we completed carriageway and footway resurfacing schemes on Hillhall Road, Lisburn and Dromore Road, Hillsborough. Additional resurfacing schemes currently being completed in the council area, include Magheradartin Road, Hillsborough, Hillhead Road, Lisburn and Barnfield Road, Derriaghy. Other recently completed projects, including street lighting upgrade schemes for Iniscarn Estate, Granville and Ballynahinch Road, Annahilt.
"The Department is committed to investing in pedestrian, wheeling and cycling measures to provide greater Active Travel choices particularly shorter everyday journeys. The Department has developed a Northern Ireland wide Active Travel Delivery Plan that includes an update of our policies and design guidance for Active Travel as well as network plans for our larger towns and cities. Consultation on the plan opened on Wednesday and will close on 28 February 2025.
"In the meantime, we are continuing to deliver improved Active Travel schemes and have completed pedestrian measures at Glen Road, Glenavy.”
Mr McFarlane also said:
“Infrastructure Minister John O’Dowd announced in July that the A1 upgrade scheme is moving to the procurement stage, with further advancement contingent upon Business Case approval, completion of statutory procedures, and securing funding.”
In conclusion, Mr McFarlane said:
“These projects will bring significant benefits to both the local community and commuters in the Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council area.”
Notes to editors:
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