AQO 8397/11-15

Mr Paul Girvan
Democratic Unionist Party
South Antrim

Tabled Date: 04/06/2015
Answered On Date: 16/06/2015
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for Regional Development whether the A8 project will be completed within budget.

Answer:

I am very pleased to confirm that the new 14 kilometre long A8 dual carriageway between Belfast and Larne opened to traffic on 29 May and is within its £130million budget.

I have no doubt that this is money well spent in that this much needed upgraded section of the A8 will help grow the local economy and contribute to wider economic development across Northern Ireland. The scheme will also help with the development of the Port of Larne.

Throughout the works, which commenced in August 2012, TransportNI and its contractors have worked hard to minimise any inconvenience for the public.

However, traffic management arrangements will still be required to complete some works such as the tie in to side roads and accommodation works along the scheme, but every effort will be made to keep traffic disruption to a minimum.

Landscaping works will also be taking place in the autumn planting season and, with favourable weather conditions, should be completed by December 2015.