MLA calls on Finance Minister to back Knockmore Link project

Following the announcement by Chancellor Philip Hammond in his Autumn Statement that the Northern Ireland Executive is to receive an extra £250m in infrastructure funding, the DUP representative wrote to the Minister seeking an assurance that he will “look favourably at the possibility of funding some of the cost” of the proposed scheme, which would link the Knockmore area of Lisburn to the M1 motorway.

“The Finance Minister recently stated that he was hoping to work with local councils to joint-fund events,” Mrs Hale said. “Following discussions with the council, I know Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council would be keen to participate with the Minister in this venture.”

She continued: “The knockmore Link would run from the Moira Road in Lisburn to Sprucefield and it would be a vital road which would help alleviate the major traffic issues within the Lisburn and Hillsborough areas. It would also be of benefit in helping alleviate traffic problems at the Maze Long Kesh site and the whole Lisburn West development.

“The link road would not only help with traffic issues, but also be of economic benefit to the Lisburn area, with the potential for job opportunities, increased investment in the area and increase the potential of Balmoral Park at the Long Kesh site for further ventures.

“I am urging the Minister to consider this vital road network when making any decisions regarding infrastructure projects.”