Redpath to continue fight for new bypass

A public meeting is to be arranged with the DRD to allow people to have their say and the MP Jeffrey Donaldson is also to meet with the Development on the topic.

Owen Gawith, Alliance Party Councillor for Downshire West, said that at a recent committee meeting councillors expressed their opinion that a bypass could not happen mainly due to land ownership problems.

“I believe that such an immediately negative attitude is likely to be self fulfilling,” he said. “However, if we continue to put pressure on Government at all levels, we can have an effect and we can achieve some benefit for our community.”

Mr Redpath said, “This is undoubtedly the biggest issue facing the people of Moira.

“I welcome efforts by local people and elected representatives to build support for this campaign.

“This is a massive proposal and one which will involve huge costs.

“Accordingly, it will be difficult and time consuming campaign but one which I believe is vitally important for the future growth and prosperity in Moira.”

He continued, “One of our biggest advantages is that we have a Roads Minister in Danny Kennedy MLA who has shown huge commitment to the Lisburn area and who has delivered huge local investment in roads.

“The advice I have received from colleagues on how to move this campaign on has been invaluable.

“Sadly an investment of this nature will probably involve multiple Ministers as the timescale to get a by pass on the right plans and to secure funding is long.

“However I will not be found wanting, nor will my council colleagues, in fighting for this bypass.”