Other News In Brief

Parking Restrictions Considered On Busy East Belfast Route

The introduction of a waiting time parking restriction on the busy Holywood Road in east Belfast is being considered due to traffic concerns on the route.

The move, which would see double yellow lines installed outside the Maxol Garage, comes after drivers complained about "dangerously parked cars" that reduce visibility when exiting the filling station and joining the main road.

Alliance Councillor for the area Ross McMullan revealed on Wednesday that the Department for Infrastructure is to act following multiple site inspections, during which regular on-street parking was observed.

The Department is seeking the views of PSNI Road Policing and said it may be up to a year before the measure is introduced.

Cllr McMullan commented: "Some good news for those who have raised concerns about dangerously parked cars affecting sight lines at the Maxol petrol station on the Holywood Road.

"Following our request, DfI will now look to install double yellow lines at this location."

Carrickfergus Town Centre Given New Lease Of Life

Carrickfergus town centre's public realm has been upgraded courtesy of a £660,000 makeover.

Antrim Street and Lancasterian Street were the subject of a high quality public realm project, which improved the area with new footways, lighting and street furniture.

Working alongside the Department for Infrastructure, the Department for Communities (DfC) also installed new trees and seating areas at the front of the Museum and Civic Centre, and resurfaced the roadway.

This investment was funded by the DfC and Mid & East Antrim Borough Council.

Communities Minister Deirdre Hargey MLA commented on the success of the works while on a recent visit to Carrickfergus.

"It's wonderful to see the quality of the new public realm along Antrim Street and Lancasterian Street," she said. "This is the latest public realm project my Department has delivered in the town and it is evident that creating modern and improved spaces is an essential element for regeneration. Local people and visitors to Carrickfergus will be able to enjoy this welcoming space as they shop and enjoy their time in this historic town."

Mid and East Antrim Mayor, Cllr Maureen Morrow added: "I am delighted to see the results of the public realm scheme in Carrickfergus. One of Council's key strategic commitments is to develop Carrickfergus as a world class heritage site and a must-visit destination for tourists around the world. The town has been given a much welcome facelift with new footways, lighting and street furniture, features which will all add to the experience of residents, businesses and visitors alike when they come to Carrickfergus."

Lisburn Route To Close For Resurfacing

Overnight road closures have been announced to support a resurfacing scheme in Lisburn.

A section of the Glenavy Road, from Magheramesk Lane in a southerly direction towards the railway bridge, will be disrupted when work begins on Friday 06 March.

A series of road and lane closures will be implemented throughout the project.

Full overnight road closures will be in place on Friday 06 and Saturday 07 from 7pm until 10am and again on Friday 13 and Saturday 14, also from 7pm until 10am.

During these times a diversionary route will be in place using the Moira roundabout, A3 Moira Road, Knockmore Road, Prince William Road, Ballymacash Road, A30 Glenavy Road and A26 Moira Road to accommodate traffic in both directions.

In addition a lane closure will operate on Monday 09 and Tuesday 10 between the hours of 9.30am and 4pm.

The Department for Infrastructure is urging the public to comply with all temporary traffic restrictions and to exercise care when travelling through, or in the vicinity of, the works.

The work is expected to reach completion by Sunday 15 March.



(JG/CM)