PLANS to improve the A1 carriageway in Co Down were discussed yesterday as a public inquiry into the proposed £70m upgrade got underway.
The three-day hearing in Banbridge heard from a Department for Infrastructure (DfI) official, who said the proposed scheme would improve safety along the route.
In January, infrastructure minister Nichola Mallon announced that a public inquiry would be held on plans to improve the A1 carriageway, which has been the scene of a number of deaths in recent years.
She said at the time she was "very aware how important the A1 improvements are for the many people".
The scheme aims to deliver further safety improvements over the 25km stretch of the A1 dual carriageway between Hillsborough and Loughbrickland.
It would involve the closure of more than 100 gaps in the central reservation. Four new flyovers could be built and right turns onto 20 side roads closed.
The scheme could create diversions of up to 5km for some road users.
DfI official Liam McAvoy told the inquiry yesterday that 12 objections to the scheme had been raised, relating to issues such as environmental concerns, detours and the impact on property values.
But he said the proposed road would allow for more consistent journey times and there had been "significant" support, including a petition with 12,000 signatures, lodged in relation to the scheme.
Supporters and objectors will outline their views on the proposed scheme over the next two days.
Recommendations by inquiry inspector Kevin Chambers will be made to the department following the conclusion of the inquiry before a decision on whether to proceed with the scheme is made.
