Minister Hazzard discusses infrastructure provision in West Tyrone

Infrastructure Minister Chris Hazzard has today visited a number of key areas in West Tyrone to discuss infrastructure provision.

The Minister began his day with a visit to the proposed site of the new Strabane town centre footbridge. Here he met with Council Chief Executive John Kelpie. 

The Minister said;

“I am committed to advancing the prospect of a footbridge for Strabane that would be an integral link between the town centre and the Translink Bus Centre.  There are a number of unresolved issues that need to be addressed and I have asked my officials to progress these with council officials.”

After a site meeting in the village of Clady the Minister then went on to meet with members of Omagh Chamber of Commerce where a number of key projects and issues were discussed.

The Minister said;

“I’ve had a very constructive and informative meeting with members of the Chamber of Commerce here in Omagh.  I have reaffirmed my commitment to remedy the north’s infrastructure deficit - particularly west of the Bann. The A5 Transport Corridor is one such development that will link Derry, Strabane, Omagh and Ballygawley and unlock the potential for future economic development of these areas.”

The Minister also took the opportunity to update the members on his recent announcement of 1000 kilometres of greenways across the north.  He continued saying;

“These greenway paths will connect towns and cities to the villages and countryside from east to west and north to south, and will also be integrated with other modes of transport, making it easier for people to leave the car behind.

“One of my key priorities as outlined in the Programme for Government is to help transform how we travel by increasing the number of people walking, cycling and using public transport which will enhance the region as a place where people want to live and work, to visit and invest.

“Joined up working between central and local government is key to delivering the draft Programme for Government outcomes to create a better society.  Alongside projects like the A5 and A6, and the development of City of Derry Airport, those living west of the Bann are set to see a real change in the development of the local infrastructure over the coming years.”

Notes to editors: 

1. All media queries should be directed to the Department for Infrastructure Press Office on 028 9054 0007 or e-mail: press.office@infrastructure-ni.gov.uk
2. Out of hours please contact the duty press officer via pager number 07623 974 383 and your call will be returned.   
3. Follow the Department on Twitter @deptinfra

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