Hazzard is optimistic on Ballynahinch bypass

Hazzard is optimistic on Ballynahinch bypass

SOUTH Down Assemblyman Chris Hazzard said the proposed Ballynahinch by-pass is one of a number of road schemes at the heart of attracting jobs and prosperity to the constituency.

He has given a cautious welcome to news that the Department for Regional Development (DRD) has agreed the preferred route of the by-pass linking the town’s Newcastle and Belfast roads.

In response to an Assembly question about the multi-million pound scheme tabled by Mr. Hazzard, DRD Minister Danny Kennedy said the Roads Service had completed a range of assessments and had settled on a preferred line.

The South Down MLA said the Roads Service is now undertaking detailed environmental, engineering, and economic assessments that are required to progress the proposed scheme.

Mr. Hazzard explained these mandatory procedures require the publication of an environmental statement, along with notices to make so-called direction and vesting orders.

He continued: “Depending on the public response to this consultation process, it may then be necessary to hold a public inquiry to determine if the scheme can progress as planned.

“Following a recent meeting with Mr. Kennedy, I’m pleased that quantifiable steps are now being taken towards finally getting this much needed by-pass ‘shovel-ready’ for future investment.”

Mr. Hazzard said the Ballynahinch by-pass, together with an upgrade of the road network across the constituency, is at the very heart of attracting enterprise, jobs, and prosperity to South Down.

He added: “I am determined that this issue will remain on the agenda for as long as it takes to remedy decades of neglect.”