Infrastructure Minister has announced the next steps
for the progression of the A24 Ballynahinch Bypass Scheme.
The proposed scheme will provide a single carriageway bypass,
approximately 3.1 kilometres in length around the eastern
periphery of Ballynahinch. Minister Kimmins has confirmed
that the scheme will be moving forward to business case and
procurement stage.
During a visit to the town, Minister Kimmins said: “I am
delighted to announce this positive step forward for the
long-awaited A24 Ballynahinch Bypass scheme. I know that
for the local community, businesses and commuters through the
area this will be a welcome development.
“This important project will help to significantly
alleviate traffic congestion in the centre of Ballynahinch,
improving journey time reliability, road safety and air quality
on the busy A24 Belfast to Newcastle Road. As part of my
commitment to increase opportunities for active and sustainable
travel I am also pleased that the scheme will include the
provision of a new footway/cycleway and a park and share
facility.
“This will all serve to enhance the town
centre environment and provide a more positive experience for
locals and visitors alike.”
Continuing the Minister said: “Major projects take years
to develop and complete the necessary statutory
orders, so we do need to prioritise the
development and delivery of our schemes accordingly. On that
basis and having already committed to take the
A1 Junctions Phase 2 project to construction I can confirm that,
in order to minimise the budget impact on future years, the
Ballynahinch Bypass will be managed sequentially to the A1
Junctions project.
“When completed, these strategic road improvement schemes
will deliver for communities and road users for generations to
come.”
The Department will now commence the work to review and update
the necessary documents to bring this scheme to procurement,
including the finalising of the Business Case. This process
is likely to take in the region of two years. With a
procurement start planned in 2027/28, works could commence in
2028/29 and take 2 years to complete. Delivery of the
scheme will be dependent on the successful completion of the
statutory processes and the future availability of finance.
Notes to editors:
- Further information on the A24 Ballynahinch Bypass Scheme is
available on the Department's website at: A24 Ballynahinch Bypass -
overview | Department for Infrastructure
