WIREDGOV

The Northern Ireland Assembly Committee for Infrastructure has welcomed the plans to go ahead with the York Street Interchange Scheme announced recently by the Minister for Infrastructure.

Chairperson of the Committee, William Humphrey MLA said: "My Committee is very pleased to see that the Minister has reconsidered delaying the York Street Interchange Scheme and now will proceed with this important improvement.

"It has been obvious to all who use this road, and was confirmed through the Public Inquiry, that improvement was not just desirable, but necessary. The junction at York Street is, and has been, a major bottleneck on our strategic road network for too many years. Anyone who has needed to use the Westlink, M2 and M3 would attest to issues, not only at rush hour, but throughout the day.

"The Westlink, M2 and M3 are the busiest roads in Northern Ireland and they are vital to our economic life, linking Belfast with the airport, and the North West. Many people are reliant on these roads to access work, education, and sporting fixtures and they are a vital part of accessing key ports.

"We also believe that the £130 million designated for the scheme will have positive benefits for our construction industry and the many people who work within it; this is something that can give a real boost to the economy while upgrading an important road network.

"Our Committee has pressed for this scheme to be implemented and we will be watching as it takes shape."