Kennedy welcomes major funding boost

Transport Minister Danny Kennedy has secured over £40million in funding to help support road improvements and street lighting in Northern Ireland.

In addition, the Department received £75million in capital funding for 2014/15. This money will enable work to progress on the A31 Magherafelt bypass and to continue construction of the A8 Belfast to Larne road. An £8million allocation will also allow the A26 Frosses Road dualling, to be taken forward.

Kennedy (pictured) said: “This is a significant funding boost for my department which will allow work to progress on a number of major road schemes.

“It is great news for the economy and for the local construction industry which has been hit hard by the economic recession. Progressing major road schemes and carrying out road improvements sustains hundreds of jobs every year and ensures the travelling public enjoy safer and more enjoyable journeys.

“I am also pleased that our bid for street lighting was successful and that £6million has been allocated towards essential renewal works and safety testing this year.”