Motorists on the A2 into Belfast will be among those affected

Millions of pounds worth of roadworks are set to cause further chaos on Northern Ireland's roads over the coming months.

The Department of Regional Development says the �2.3m programme of repairs is essential.

Officials are encouraging commuters to get out of their cars and take public transport for the duration.

Commuters from Bangor and Holywood in County Down into Belfast are among those who will be affected by the repairs.

Other work is scheduled for the A2 at Greenisland and the M2 at Fortwilliam, both on the outskirts of north Belfast, and one of the busiest arterial routes into the city at the M1 at Stockman's Lane.

However frustrating it is, the Department for Regional Development says, the work has to be done sometime.

We will do everything we possibly can to accommodate any additional travellers that may come along Seamus Scallon Translink

"If you think of the volumes of traffic which travel on our roads, and you think of the amount of maintenance that a car requires, it is quite clear that maintenance of the roads that carry those cars is needed," said Joe Drew, Divisional Roads Manager of the Roads Service.

Rail operator Translink said it would do all it could to accommodate potential travellers.

"We are pleased that we are obviously in a position where we can perhaps accommodate some of the potential road users, " said Seamus Scallon.

"We run alongside the main Bangor to Belfast road and we have a frequent service.

"Hopefully we can avail of some additional custom and we will do everything we possibly can to accommodate any additional travellers that may come along."

The first set of roadworks is due to begin next month.