Speaking after receiving confirmation of the scheme, local DUP Member of Parliament Carla Lockhart said:

“After 4 years of lobbying to see this realignment scheme delivered, I am absolutely delighted that DfI has now confirmed that works will commence this week. It is a lesson in persistence, and not letting go of an issue that must be addressed. A previous commitment was given to complete this work, but owing to COVID and land acquirement procedures there has been continual delays.

This is an extremely dangerous junction, with a history of collisions. As well as realignment, there will be hedging removed and fencing put in its place to improve vision at the junction with other remedial works taking place also.

I am delighted to have secured this improvement scheme and trust that it will make a real difference to safety at this junction.”

Councillor Tim McClelland added:

“Sadly many people have first hand experience of the dangers posed at this junction. Working with Carla, we have been consistent in our representations to the Department for Infrastructure. It is very welcome indeed to local residents that this scheme is now being delivered.”