25/10/2012

A2 Upgrade Scheme Continues

The £60m Improvement Scheme on the A2 Shore Road between Belfast and Carrickfergus is edging closer to construction.

Regional Development Minister Danny Kennedy has announced the Making of the Vesting Order for the Scheme at Greenisland.

Danny Kennedy said: "The Making of the Vesting Order will allow my Department to take the next steps towards the construction of this strategically vital section of road linking Belfast and Carrickfergus.

"Along with benefits for road users, Carrickfergus and Newtownabbey will see economic benefits from improved road connections and reduced travel times.

"I am also mindful of the impact this vesting will have on properties affected by the scheme, however, I am confident the plan provides the best balance between benefits to roads users, businesses, the wider public and effects on landowners."

The Draft Statutory Orders for the Scheme were announced in March 2007 and a subsequent public inquiry was held in October 2007.

The Department published its Notice to Proceed along with the Direction Order on 1 October 2008, but the Vesting Order was not made at that time as a result of budget constraints.

Arrangements to produce the Vesting Order came following the Minister’s announcement on 14 February 2012 that funding for the scheme had been secured.

At that stage, procurement of the scheme was also arranged.

Upon successful completion of the procurement process the scheme will commence on site early in 2013 and take up to two years to complete.

(IT/CD)

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