Cross party support must continue in fight for by-pass at town

SIR, — Last week councillor Billy Walker expressed concern that the SDLP was not at Stormont for the discussion on the Ballynahinch by-pass. While it is not possible to sit in the public gallery and view every debate the SDLP is there when it counts.

Last month I chaired a meeting with Minister Danny Kennedy were all Ballynahinch councillors and members of the Chamber of Commerce made a very strong case for the by-pass. At that meeting I urged the Minister to ensure all of the preparatory work was done in time for when the funding became available in 2014. We were pleased the Minister assured us of his support.

Ballynahinch councillors are working well together to deliver improved leisure and sports facilities, a new streetscape and resolve the problem of the steel framed building at the Square.

There has been cross party support for the by-pass for the past 20 years so councillor Walker should not make it appear there is division when our strength is working together.

Yours etc.,

CLLR. ANNE McALEENAN,

Ballynahinch.