To ask the Minister for Infrastructure, in light of a recent road traffic incident involving a child outside Assumption Grammar School, Ballynahinch and concerns around road safety in the town, for an update on the A24 Ballynahinch Bypass, including a timeline for its completion.

Road safety is a high priority for my Department and we are committed to working proactively to make our roads safer and address the needs of all road users and we are acutely aware that children and young people are amongst the most vulnerable groups using our roads, particularly around schools.

I am aware of the recent incident and would like to send my well wishes to the young girl and her family and to wish her a speedy recovery. I have asked my officials to review the existing signage and road markings to ensure they are appropriate for the area, and we will work with the PSNI with regard to any associated investigation into the incident.

Concerns regarding driver behaviour can also be reported to the PSNI using their non-emergency 101 number.

On 12 March 2025, I announced the progression of the Ballynahinch Bypass Scheme which would be delivered sequentially to the A1 Junctions project.

Since the judgment on the A5 Western Transport Corridor project and the Department’s appeal, I have taken time to carefully consider the potential impact on other projects as they move through the next stages of their delivery.

While we await the ruling from the Court Appeal, my officials continue to work on the next steps in relation to the project and I remain committed to the delivery of this vitally important infrastructure scheme.