Sinn Féin South Down MP Chris Hazzard MP has led a delegation of local Sinn Féin representatives to meet with Southern Division Roads officials regarding a wide range of South Down infrastructure and transport issues.
The South Down MP said after the meeting: “I want to thank Simon Richardson and his senior team at Roads Service for taking the time to update us on a wide range of projects and indeed listen to our thoughts and concerns regarding a number of important local infrastructure issues.
“South Down has suffered the effects of under-investment in our transport network for many decades. So it is vital that strategic investment such as the Ballynahinch Bypass, the Newry Southern Relief Road and the anti-congestion schemes in Downpatrick are delivered as a matter of priority.
“I was heartened to learn that these strategically important projects remain a priority for local roads officials and hopefully when spending plans are agreed in the months ahead for the next financial year we will see further progress being made.
“We also took the opportunity to make the case for continued improvement of the Newry to Downpatrick route – especially the B8 section of the route which includes the road links between Mayobridge, Hilltown, Kilcoo, and the A25 towards Castlewellan.
“In recent times we have worked with local roads officials to improve this route – most notably recently in Hilltown with the resurfacing and installation of the pedestrian crossing; and the Ballydoo junction realignment scheme – which is great news for commuters and pedestrians alike.”
Mr Hazzard added: “As we continue to develop South Down as a great place to live, work, and visit we need to ensure our transport network is fit for purpose and meets the needs of an ever-changing world. This will continue to be a priority for Sinn Féin in the years that lie ahead.”
