Ministers Commit To Delivery Of Key Social And Economic Projects

The Infrastructure and Finance Ministers have outlined their joint commitment to delivering projects that will bring social and economic benefits for communities across the north.

Infrastructure Minister John O'Dowd and Finance Minister Caoimhe Archibald made the commitment during a visit to the site of the proposed A4 Enniskillen Bypass following recent confirmation of funding to deliver the scheme. 

Minister O'Dowd said: "Investing in our infrastructure is critical if we are to build the foundations for better rural and urban communities. Providing more efficient, accessible and inclusive transport options and removing traffic congestion from our cities, towns and villages will help to support the creation of new business and leisure opportunities. It all starts with infrastructure and the Enniskillen Bypass is an example of the type of project that can bring about all of these benefits. The 2.1km bypass will improve connectivity by creating a new transport link and will enhance the town centre environment by improving air quality and noise levels. Importantly it will also provide 3.5km of active travel measures for walking and cycling extending along the Dublin and Derrylin roads.

"My Department has worked diligently over recent years to complete all the statutory processes for this significant project. I am pleased that following the Finance Minister's proposal last month the confirmation of Executive funding, alongside the early release of funding from the Mid South West Growth Deal, will allow us to now commence procurement with a view to construction commencing in late spring/early summer next year.

"I will continue to work closely with my Executive colleagues and council partners to deliver projects that will bring about positive changes for communities across the north."

Minister Archibald said: "Tackling regional imbalance is the key to prosperity and I was pleased, following my proposal, the Executive agreed the additional funding for the A4 Enniskillen Bypass. The project will help to provide a new transport link to the town and improve the connection between the A4 Dublin Road and the A4 Sligo Road. This vital investment, through the Mid South West Growth Deal, will be transformational for the Mid South West region and will help to attract new investment, which will benefit both local businesses and communities.

"I would like to thank all those involved in bringing the project to this point."

Councillor Errol Thompson, Chair of the Mid South West Region Governance Steering Group, said: "I am delighted that funding has been secured to progress the construction of the A4 Enniskillen Southern Bypass Scheme. It is also welcoming that the Northern Ireland Executive has demonstrated flexibility and commitment to the scheme by agreeing to the early release of the £12.5 million investment from the Mid South West Growth Deal in advance of the signing of the Deal's Heads of Terms.

"This is a significant scheme for Enniskillen and the wider Fermanagh and Omagh District Council area as it will help to improve connectivity, travel times and safety on this busy road. One of the pillars of the Mid South West Growth Deal is Enabling Infrastructure which is critical to driving economic growth and helping the region realise its growth potential.  This scheme will contribute to the achievement of this and will be a welcome boost to the local economy as it will unlock opportunities for businesses and communities in Enniskillen and the surrounding towns and villages."