AQW 25259/11-15

Mr Daithí McKay
Sinn Féin
North Antrim

Tabled Date: 04/09/2013
Answered On Date: 25/09/2013
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for Regional Development whether Roads Service have consulted with cycle groups regarding proposed changes to the East Bridge Street junction, Belfast.

Answer:

My Department proposes to amend road markings and traffic lane designations at the junction of Oxford Street with East Bridge Street, Belfast.

This is a routine minor local amendment which is considered will benefit all road users and does not require legislative changes. In these circumstances, no specific consultation was carried out.

I would also advise the Member that I have recently instructed my officials to give increased and focused priority to the needs of cyclists, to encourage greater participation in this healthy and sustainable form of transport. To that end, I am establishing a new cycling unit to ensure cycling issues and initiatives are progressed in a more coherent and coordinated manner across my Department, in partnership with local government, voluntary bodies, public transport operators and the health and education sectors.