Alliance Strangford MLA Nick Mathison said: “The Infrastructure Minister’s decision to progress the Ballynahinch Bypass is positive step and much needed for the town. I have raised several questions with former Infrastructure Minister regarding this project, and I am pleased that the new Minister has now confirmed that plans are moving forward.
“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.
“The bypass is vital not just for residents and businesses in Ballynahinch but for the wider South and East Down area. It will significantly reduce traffic congestion, bringing both economic and environmental benefits to the region.”
“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.
“The bypass is vital not just for residents and businesses in Ballynahinch but for the wider South and East Down area. It will significantly reduce traffic congestion, bringing both economic and environmental benefits to the region.”
Fellow Strangford MLA Kellie Armstrong said Alliance had campaigned for years on the issue.
"The people of Ballynahinch have waited too long for delivery of this project. I will therefore play my role in holding the Infrastructure Minister to account to ensure they finally see it delivered after all this time."
Rowallane Councillor Tierna Howie stated: “This is an incredibly important project for Ballynahinch, and I am glad that there’s finally investment to see it progress.
“While this is welcome news, the project was delayed for many years during the collapse of the Assembly, significantly impacting its timeline, which has been disappointing for the town.”
Rowallane Councillor David Lee-Surginor also added: “The news that the Infrastructure Minister has announced to prioritise the Ballynahinch Bypass is long awaited.
“Last year, my Rowallane colleagues and I had a productive meeting with then-Infrastructure Minister John O'Dowd and his officials, where we highlighted the significant economic and health benefits of delivering this bypass as soon as possible.
“My Alliance colleagues and I will be closely monitoring the Minister and her department to ensure that this project remains a priority and does not fall onto the back burner again.”
Rowallane Councillor Tierna Howie stated: “This is an incredibly important project for Ballynahinch, and I am glad that there’s finally investment to see it progress.
“While this is welcome news, the project was delayed for many years during the collapse of the Assembly, significantly impacting its timeline, which has been disappointing for the town.”
Rowallane Councillor David Lee-Surginor also added: “The news that the Infrastructure Minister has announced to prioritise the Ballynahinch Bypass is long awaited.
“Last year, my Rowallane colleagues and I had a productive meeting with then-Infrastructure Minister John O'Dowd and his officials, where we highlighted the significant economic and health benefits of delivering this bypass as soon as possible.
“My Alliance colleagues and I will be closely monitoring the Minister and her department to ensure that this project remains a priority and does not fall onto the back burner again.”