Gospel lane leads the way for revitalisation project

Transport Minister Danny Kennedy MLA with Ulster Unionist colleague Jo-Anne Dobson MLA, Council Chairperson Marie Hamilton, Councillors Joan Baird, Jim McIlroy and officials from Banbridge District Council, DRD and the contractor McAvoy Construction.

Representatives from the department visited Banbridge on Monday, December 22 when Lynne McDonald, Deputy Director of DSD Regional Development Office viewed the new Gospel Lane link road which connects Bridge Street to the recently improved Rathfriland Street.

The funding provided by Department for Social Development has enabled the implementation of the Rathfriland Street public realm improvement works and also the purchase of the same granite materials for the pavements in Gospel Lane resulting in a high quality, high spec finish on both streets.

Transport Minister Danny Kennedy confirmed the completion of the new link road and footways at Gospel Lane in Banbridge.

“The completion of this work represents a significant capital investment in the order of £500,000 providing new infrastructure in Banbridge” he said.

“I am confident that residents and visitors to the town will welcome the improvements which will complement the finish used in the recent Environmental Improvement schemes.

“I congratulate the efforts of My Department’s Engineers and local construction company McAvoy Construction in delivering this project.”

Catriona Regan. Director of Leisure and Development said: “Without the funding Gospel Lane would not have included the attractive granite materials which have been used to enhance the project.”

Lynne McDonald from DSD said: “The completion of the Gospel Lane scheme is an excellent example of joined up working between the Department, Transport NI and Banbridge District Council.

“It will further enhance and complement previous schemes co-funded by the Department in Newry Street, Bridge Street and Rathfriland Street and further boost the Solitude Park area.

“It is anticipated that this completed project will further enhance the commercial core of Banbridge Town Centre, benefitting businesses, retailers, residents and visitors alike.

MLA Jo-Anne Dobson said: “This is one of the most significant changes to the roads infrastructure in our town centre for many years and one which will benefit shoppers and traders alike.

“I would commend the work of everyone involved in this project which has been delivered to a high standard of finish and will be a real asset to Banbridge. I have been delighted to assist with this project through its various stages and it is lovely to see it successfully completed.”