AQW 7872/16-21

Mr Stewart Dickson
Alliance Party
East Antrim

Tabled Date: 24/11/2016
Answered On Date: 01/12/2016
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for Infrastructure , following the Chancellor's Autumn Statement, for an update on the York Street Interchange project .

Answer:

I welcome the additional funding for infrastructure available to the Block following the Chancellors Autumn Statement. The Executive will now determine its capital allocations for the four years ahead and I will be striving to maximise the amount available to my Department to progress the ambitious agenda I have laid out.

With regard to the progression of the York Street Interchange scheme, I’m sure you are aware that I announced the publication of the outcome of the Public Inquiry along with a Departmental Statement and Notice to Proceed on Tuesday 15 November. This was an important step, which allows my officials to progress the development of the scheme, in particular the recommendations in the Inspector’s Report from the Public Inquiry regarding consultation with the local community and other key stakeholders.

Progression of this scheme to construction is dependent on funding and I will need to consider this project, together with other priorities as part of my Budget 2017-21. The York Street Interchange, however, remains a priority and I am committed to do all that I can to deliver the scheme within the current financial context, working with the Finance Minister and other Executive colleagues.