Ballynahinch road study could begin inside year

Ballynahinch road study could begin inside year

13 June 2012

WORK on an environmental impact study on Ballynahinch’s proposed £50m by-pass could get underway within the next 12 months.

The news was confirmed at Monday night’s monthly meeting of Down Council’s External Affairs Committee which was addressed by senior Roads Service officials.

The route of the two-mile by-pass linking the town’s Newcastle and Belfast roads was formally approved at the start of the year following public consultation and consideration of comprehensive environmental, engineering and economic assessments.

Roads officials have admitted the level of funding required for the Ballynahinch scheme is not available in the current budget period. However,they are undertaking more detailed environmental, engineering and economic assessments in preparation for progressing the scheme through the various statutory procedures.

Councillor Anne McAleenan issued a reminder that Stormont Environment Minister Danny Kennedy has highlighted the need for work to continue on the proposed by-pass.

“The Minister said the project must be ‘spade ready’ in order that when money does become available, work can start. It’s important work on the environmental impact study is completed,” she declared.

Councillor Mickey Coogan said local politicians will do all they can to help secure the funding for the eagerly-awaited by-pass, arguing the Ballynahinch scheme also has the potential to significantly increase the number of tourists into South Down. He said it’s vital that money to deliver a new by-pass is provided.

Mr. Roger Morgan, the Roads Service’s principal engineer for the Down area, confirmed the Ballynahinch scheme was progressing through the statutory procedures in the hope that further down the line funding will become available.

“The scheme’s priority has increased and if and when money becomes available we will be in a position to act quickly and move it on,” he continued.

Mr. Morgan added: “The Roads Service is committed to this scheme and we intend to push on with all the preparation work as far as we can take it and hope the Executive will provide the necessary funding. When it does, we will leave no stone unturned progressing this scheme.”