By Q Radio News
Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon is pushing ahead with plans for the Enniskillen Bypass.
The SDLP MLA has said that after looking at how the plan for the new road linking the main A4 Belfast road to the main roads heading towards Dublin and Sligo will impact the environment, she decided work on the new road should go ahead.
(The bypass means that people travelling from Belfast to Sligo can avoid driving through the town)
She said that part of her decision to plough forward with the bypass plans stemmed from a bid to reduce pollution and congestion in Enniskillen town centre by halving journey times and getting rid of the through-traffic that clogs the town’s streets.
Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon is pushing ahead with plans for the Enniskillen Bypass.https://t.co/OcDt1g5Ulg
— Q Radio News (@qnewsdesk) May 11, 2021
The minister added: “I acutely recognise that this scheme is of significant importance to the town of Enniskillen and the surrounding area.
“To reshape our places and kick start our green recovery, I am also pleased to announce that as part of my commitment to deliver green and sustainable infrastructure this scheme will also serve to enhance the town centre environment by improving air quality and noise levels and will see the introduction of active travel measures to enhance the experience of locals and visitors alike.”
Meanwhile Sinn Féin MLA Jemma Dolan welcomed the decision and said she is excited about its delivery.
The Fermanagh South Tyrone MLA added: "This is great news for Enniskillen and the local area.
“I’m delighted that on the day I table the A4 Enniskillen Bypass for debate on the assembly floor, the Minister has agreed to proceed with the scheme.
“This scheme will cut air pollution and congestion in Enniskillen town, while enjoying the overwhelming support of the local area.
“My constituency is one of the worst areas deprived of modern, decent roads. In order to drive regional balance, we need to invest in the right infrastructure that helps us achieve that.
“I will continue to push for the delivery of this vital scheme."
(The MLA is determined to start work on the bypass)
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