To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what plans are under consideration for the Bangor to Belfast road in relation to noise abatement, traffic calming and safety; and what measures are (a) already decided or (b) in progress. [37165]

Although there are no plans under consideration for this route in relation to noise abatement, a number of traffic management and road safety measure are proposed. These measures include, in particular, the introduction of new technology which will enable traffic signals along the route to be controlled remotely so that signal settings can be optimised to cater for varying traffic flows, and the provision of right turning lanes at the busiest junctions along the route. It is planned to start work on most of the proposals in the next financial year, subject to the availability of the necessary finance.