Roadworks: £900k A8 resurfacing project set to take place this year

Plans for a major resurfacing project on a stretch of the A8 dual carriageway in Newtownabbey are expected to be progressed later this summer.

Confirming the announcement on Tuesday, June 28, a Department of Infrastructure spokesperson said: “TransportNI have secured funding of £900,000 to carry out a resurfacing project of the A8 between Corr’s Corner and Houston’s Corner. Tenders for the project are to be returned before the end of this week. No start date has been agreed, however the Department would be proposing an August start date if possible.”

Addressing the council’s monthly meeting at Mossley Mill on Monday, June 27, TransportNI Northern Division’s Manager, Deidre Mackle, referred to other initiatives which are ongoing in the area. She said a speed restriction of 20 miles per hour in Merville Garden Village had been introduced in March and this would be monitored for a year. She explained this was one of a number of sites across Northern Ireland which were being similarly monitored.

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It’s understood the method has been successful in dealing with speeding issues in other areas and a review will take place to find if the use of signs alone is adequate for reducing speed in Merville.

During the meeting, councillors highlighted a number of issues and concerns relating to the borough’s roads network, including the need for grass cutting, pothole repairs and weed spraying.

Ms Mackle clarified the position in relation to grass cutting services, saying: “To ensure public safety is not compromised, sightlines will be cut as required. Currently, all roadside verges and sightline grass will be cut at least once in the period April-October.”

Members were assured that the safety of the road network is a priority and were informed that potholes will be repaired, road markings replaced, weeds sprayed and gullies cleared.

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Over £11m was spent on road schemes across Antrim and Newtownabbey during the 2015/16 financial year.

Commenting on the recent investment, Infrastructure Minister Chris Hazzard said: “Improving transport connections along our key routes while maintaining a network which is fit for purpose for all users is a priority for the Executive.

“Investment of more than £11million over the past year, including the delivery of dualling schemes on the A8 Belfast to Larne and A2 Shore Road at Greenisland is making a real difference for local communities, improving road safety and reducing journey times for local people, as well as ensuring the road network is maintained for the future.”

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