Write a comment
A consultation carried out by the Department for Infrastructure earlier this year on the Southern Relief Road received 154 objections to the scheme and just 15 responses in support. A total of 55% of objectors mentioned the proposed inclusion of a fixed bridge over Newry Ship Canal as their reason. A fixed bridge would spell the end of nearly 300 years of Newry maritime history.
Newry & Armagh MLA Justin McNulty who asked Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins for an update on the consultation at the Assembly on Monday 15 September, has also welcomed confirmation from the minister that she shares his position in favour of a lifting bridge being included as part of the Newry Southern Relief Road project.
Currently there is a shortfall of around £22 million of funding for the scheme.
To date the results of the consultation haven't been published despite it concluding in March but Minister Kimmins was able to give some information on it in reply to a question from Aoife Finnegan MLA: "A total of 214 responses to the consultation were received, which shows the depth of feeling in the area and that people want to be a part of the process. That consultation was held between 21 January and 4 March 2025. Of those representations, 154 were objections, 55% of which cited the inclusion of the fixed bridge as the reason for their objection. There were 15 responses supporting the proposed scheme, 24 general comments and 21 responses that were not applicable to the scheme." she said.
Speaking on the SRR project Mr McNulty said "Minister, it is reassuring that you are on the record as saying that there should be a lifting bridge to accommodate tall ships coming into the Albert Basin in Newry.
"On the consultation, will you confirm and reassure residents from around the Flagstaff Road, Barracric and Ellisholding that their views on the environment around Benson's Glen and the tie-in points with Ellisholding Road at the A1 will be listened to?"
In her reply Minister Kimmins said "My position on the road is absolutely on the record, and I will never move from that position. As a Minister, I have to consider all the responses to the consultation and be impartial. My officials are working through that. The voices of everyone who has made a representation will be heard and the issues that they have raised will be considered as part of that process."
Speaking after questioning the Minister in the Assembly, Mr McNulty said: “The Southern Relief Road is one of the most significant infrastructure projects ever proposed for Newry. It will shape the city for generations to come, so it is crucial that we get it right.
Liz Kimmins MLA
"For me, and for the people of Newry, that means ensuring the road accommodates not only future traffic flow but also our cultural, economic and tourism ambitions. A lifting bridge is essential to allow tall ships and other vessels to access Newry’s historic canal and waterfront. Anything less would close off opportunities for growth and regeneration.
Mr McNulty acknowledged that, despite political differences, Minister Kimmins has gone on record to support the principle of a lifting bridge.
“I want to give credit to the Minister for standing firm on this point. Despite the many pressures on her Department, she has been unequivocal that a lifting bridge is the right option. That is a position I share and one which the overwhelming number of responses to the consultation have also highlighted."
Mr McNulty continued "This is about more than engineering — it’s about ambition for Newry. We must not sell our city short with a fixed bridge that blocks maritime access and stifles future opportunity.”
The SDLP MLA also called for the Department to give full consideration to the concerns of residents who have raised environmental and connectivity issues during the consultation.
“Local voices matter. The 214 responses submitted to the consultation show just how deeply people care about this project. Their concerns about environmental impact and road tie-ins must be listened to. This road has to serve the people of Newry and South Armagh, not work against them.
“The Minister’s confirmation on the lifting bridge is welcome, but this is only one piece of the puzzle. The SDLP will continue to work to ensure the Southern Relief Road delivers for communities, respects the environment, and unlocks Newry’s potential as a vibrant, connected city.”
