Public inquiry to probe Ballynahinch bypass scheme

Public inquiry to probe Ballynahinch bypass scheme

4 November 2015

A PUBLIC inquiry will be held into plans for Ballynahinch’s multi-million pound bypass.

The news was confirmed yesterday by Stormont roads minister Michelle McIlveen with the public probe of the two-mile scheme — which could cost up to £50m — set to get underway on January 26 at the Millbrook Lodge Hotel.

The bypass will link the Newcastle and Belfast road and Miss McIlveen is optimistic any issues which may arise can be resolved either ahead of or as a result of the public inquiry.

Proposals for the eagerly-awaited scheme were published earlier this year with a total of 36 responses were received. The purpose of the public inquiry is to enable objectors, supporters and promoters to present their evidence before an independent Inspector.

Miss McIlveen said there has been “considerable interest” in the proposed bypass project.

“It is important everyone has an open opportunity to discuss and debate any issues associated with the published draft orders and environmental statement before an independent inspector.

I am optimistic that any issues can be resolved either prior to or as a result of the inquiry,” she continued.

Roads officials say throughout the development of the proposed bypass scheme, 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.