The Department of Infrastructure is set to complete a major road improvement scheme more than two weeks ahead of schedule.

The A24 Cooil Road has been closed between the Ballacottier roundabout and Lhergy Cripperty Road since 22nd June to enable highway reconstruction and resurfacing to take place.

Work was programmed to finish on 11 August, but the smooth progress of the scheme will see the road reopening by 4.30pm today (Thursday 23rd July 2015).

The maintenance and improvements have involved planing and overlaying 1,500 metres of highway using 91 tonnes of base layer material from Stoney Mountain Quarry and 1,812 tonnes of asphalt concrete. Infrastructure staff have also laid 142 metres of new drainage, painted 1,630 metres of white lines and replaced grates and service covers.

Infrastructure Minister Phil Gawne MHK, said: ‘I’d like to thank people for their patience and understanding while this essential work has been carried out. Road closures allow the Department’s workforce to complete schemes in a safer environment and in the most time-efficient manner possible, which is reflected in the fact that Cooil Road is reopening well ahead of schedule.’