Traffic Congestion (Ballynahinch)

Part of the debate – in the Northern Ireland Assembly at 7:00 pm on 30 January 2001.

Alert me about debates like this

Photo of Gregory Campbell Gregory Campbell DUP 7:00, 30 January 2001

I am about to conclude.

As everybody in this Chamber knows, I have been awarded a roads budget — effectively for year one, and indicatively for years two and three — within which I have to try and deliver road schemes. You could argue that that has no direct impact on Ballynahinch, as it is not currently in the five-year building programme. However, the schemes currently in that programme have a higher priority than Ballynahinch. That would not change if delays were imposed on the earlier schemes. The knock-on effect would mean that there would be delays right down the line. As I have said on many occasions, to build roads I need the appropriate level of funding. I hope that Members remember that when they next have an opportunity to consider budget levels.

I understand the frustration faced by those in the Ballynahinch area and those who wish to travel through it, and I will repeat the remarks made during the debate. The will is most definitely there in respect of Ballynahinch — the finance is something that I have to negotiate and argue for. I hope and expect to receive the support of Members in endeavouring to obtain the necessary finance.

Adjourned at 7.12 pm.