‘Welcome news’, says MP

‘Welcome news’, says MP

19 March 2025

SOUTH Down MP Chris Hazzard is delighted the bypass is edging closer to delivery with work underway to finalise the business case ahead of the £50m scheme progressing to the procurement stage.

Mr Hazzard — who accepted the outcome of the public inquiry into the bypass when he was Stormont roads minister in 2016 — is pleased work could finally start in three years’ time.

“It’s welcome news that Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins has announced the way forward for this vital scheme,” he said.

“This will help to alleviate traffic congestion in the town, improve safety and cut journey times, with the proposals including a new footway, cycleway and a park and share facility.”

Mr Hazzard said he will continue to work with the minister to see the project delivered.

“Successive Sinn Féin Infrastructure Ministers have prioritised this project and by continuing to work together, we can ensure this long overdue scheme is delivered,” he said.

“I look forward to continuing to work with Minister Kimmins on this key project as it progresses further.”

Strangford MLAs Harry Harvey, Nick Mathison and Kellie Armstrong have also welcomed progress on the multi-million pound scheme.

Mr Harvey is delighted the business case for the eagerly-awaited scheme will now be finalised ahead of formal procurement and bulldozers on site.

“Traffic congestion in Ballynahinch has had a huge impact on the town for many years, affecting both businesses and residents, as well as those in the surrounding areas,” he said.

“Given this has been the case for so long, I welcome the announcement that the proposed bypass will now move to the next key stage, with the business case being finalised and procurement being pencilled in for around two years’ time.”

Mr Harvey said addressing this issue has been a priority for him and his DUP colleagues, Jim Shannon MP and Michelle McIlveen MLA.

“We have worked hard to keep this project moving forward and today’s announcement is a good day for the community of Ballynahinch,” he said.

Mr Harvey said the potential for work to begin in 2028/9 was welcome, but insisted it was vital the timetable is maintained.

He added: “Ballynahinch and the wider area cannot afford any further delays. I will continue to press for progress and ensure this long-awaited bypass becomes a reality.”

Mr Mathison described the decision to progress the bypass as a “positive step” and much-needed for the town.

“I have raised several questions with former Infrastructure Minister John O’Dowd regarding this project and am pleased that the new minister has now confirmed that plans are moving forward,” he said.

“Nevertheless, it is disappointing that this vital project has been side-lined for so long due to stop-start government, highlighting our urgent need for institutional reform.”

Mr Mathison said the bypass was vital, not just for residents and businesses in Ballynahinch, but for the wider South and East Down area.

Mrs Armstrong said the people of Ballynahinch had waited too long for delivery of the bypass.

She added: “I will play my role in holding the Infrastructure Minister to account to ensure the bypass is finally delivered this time.”