Ballynahinch by-pass plan attracted just 36 responses from public

Ballynahinch by-pass plan attracted just 36 responses from public

9 December 2015

TWO thirds of responses to Ballynahinch’s proposed multi-million pound by-pass raised objections to elements of the major road scheme, it has emerged.

Local politicians were informed on Monday night that proposals for the eagerly-awaited scheme were published earlier this year with almost 64 per cent of the 36 responses raising concerns.

A public inquiry will be held into plans for the two-mile by-pass — which could cost up to £50m — in the New Year at the Millbrook Lodge Hotel in Ballynahinch.

The purpose of the inquiry is to enable objectors, supporters and promoters to present their evidence before an independent Inspector.

Roads officials insist that throughout the development of the proposed by-pass, the impact on local landowners and stakeholders has been a key consideration. They say mitigation measures including low noise road surfacing, sustainable drainage and extensive planting proposals have been incorporated into the plans.

Papers circulated ahead of Monday night’s meeting of Newry, Mourne and Down Council reveal many of the objections to the eagerly-awaited by-pass which will link the Belfast and Newcastle roads, relate to the project’s direct impact on farmland, outbuilding and dwellings. 

Concern has also been expressed about the scheme’s environmental impact, including the potential for increased flooding, and the impact the by-pass will have on passing trade in Ballynahinch town centre.

Queries in relation to paying compensation for land required to deliver the by-pass and the provision of a new junction at the Crossgar Road have also been raised.

Councillors were also told on Monday night that five letters have been received in support of the scheme, with Transport NI stating that the Ballynahinch by-pass will “greatly benefit both strategic and local road users by reducing journey times and improving road safety.”

New roundabouts are proposed at the Belfast Road junction with the Saintfield Road and at the Newcastle Road junction with the Downpatrick Road, with a new bridge constructed over the Moss Road. The by-pass will also pass under part of the Crossgar Road.

Overtaking lanes are proposed at either end of the new by-pass, while a 90 metre long bridge will be built as part of the major construction programme to take traffic over Ballynahinch River.

A shared foot and cycle way will run the length of the new road, while a parking facility for 27 vehicles will be constructed on the northern side of the proposed new roundabout at the Saintfield Road.

Roads officials say they have taken what is being described as a “comprehensive analysis” of the options for the proposed by-pass, including a full environmental impact assessment which has identified appropriate mitigation measures that would be implemented in the scheme.

In addition, they say the economic assessment demonstrates that the Ballynahinch scheme “would provide a good economic return” and greatly benefit road users.

Local politicians are keen for the public inquiry process to be concluded as quickly as possible in order that  all the necessary pieces in the development jigsaw are in place, including finance to allow construction work to start.