To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail any plans her Department has to replace the trees that have been cut down along the Dundrum Road, Dundrum.

Improvements to pedestrian and cycling infrastructure between Clough and Dundrum have been delivered to enhance safety and accessibility along the Dundrum Road. As part of these works, approximately 45 trees were unavoidably removed. My Department recognises the importance of trees within the local environment. While it is not always feasible to provide replacement planting within the boundaries of every scheme, funding was previously provided to Newry Mourne and Down District Council to support tree planting in alternative locations.

Following completion of the first phase of the Clough to Dundrum Active Travel Route, a feasibility study examined a range of options to complete the route. The preferred option was selected on the basis of deliverability and value for money, enabling the provision of a highquality active travel facility along the A2. Engagement with stakeholders, landowners and local elected representatives commenced in 2023 and continued through to November 2025, including further engagement associated with a redesign of a short section adjacent to Dundrum GAC.

Surface water drainage along the A2 is managed through road gullies that connect into the NI Water drainage network, which discharges to the sea at three locations. During construction, an NI Water manhole was identified and cleared, which is expected to improve drainage performance along this section of the route.