Givan criticises DRD for loading bay delay

Mr Givan says the loading bays were first identified as being required in February 2010 but have been “delayed through the legislative process by the then DRD Minister and Transport NI officials”.

Mr Givan, who has been contacted by a business raising concerns about this matter has pressed DRD and the Minister about the need to implement these changes as soon as possible.

However, Mr Givan says “foot-dragging with consultations” has delayed the process.

“I am alarmed at the delay that has taken place in the implementation of loading bays in Bachelor’s Walk and at the procrastinating that has ensued,” he commented.

“I was contacted by a local business in 2011 who believed loading bays in Bachelor’s Walk would be beneficial for their firm. The need was identified quickly, however, the process of granting permission delayed the introduction.

“By April 2012 DRD had only begun a public consultation about the positioning of the bays and the six month process lasted over one year with Lisburn City Council being consulted in May 2013,” he explained.

He continued: “Unfortunately in spite of continuous lobbying DRD have failed to implement the loading bays instead choosing to treat all proposed areas within Lisburn City Centre in one large process.”

Mr Givan says he is disappointed by the reason given for the delay. “The reason given for the delay to this specific case is that it would be more efficient to consider all proposals together. It is very concerning that four years after this issue being first raised DRD blame efficiency in their processes for a delay in progressing a much needed facility for local business,” said Mr Givan.

“It beggars belief how it can take this length of time to make basic provisions that will help a local business.

“If this was the inefficient response of a private company it would out of business but for a public body to dither in this manner needs to be raised with the Minister and will be expressing the need for much greater efficiency in progressing proposals that will favour local businesses in Lisburn City Centre,” he added.

A DRD spokesperson said: “The Department must prioritise competing demand for its resources, however, TransportNI is working to progress the proposals for the provision of loading bays in Bachelors Walk and other streets in Lisburn.

“The process involves a number of stages including formal consultations and as such can appear lengthy.

“Subject to there being no objections, it is anticipated that the loading bays will be provided during the first half of 2015.”