The Freight Transport Association (FTA) has today made a submission to the Public Inquiry into the planned £180m development of York Street Interchange in Belfast.  FTA was the sole representative of the transport industry giving evidence in favour of the scheme.

FTA says the proposed work will make significant improvements to traffic flow, journey time reliability and emissions.  York Street Interchange is a vital part of Northern Ireland’s strategic road network as it connects all major traffic flows in the area.

The junction, on the Westlink in Belfast, is notorious for its long traffic delays and has been problematic for the transport sector for many years.  It not only leads to delays for goods vehicles delivering into and around Belfast but it adds significant journey time and costs for vehicles using Belfast Harbour.

Most freight movements pass through York Street Interchange and the planned work, which is scheduled to start in autumn 2017, will improve access to and from Belfast Harbour and the nearby Boucher and Mallusk industrial estates.  The port handled 23 million tonnes of freight in 2014, which represents 66% of freight traffic in Northern Ireland.

Seamus Leheny, FTA’s Northern Ireland Manager, said: “Commercial vehicle operators contribute significant revenue to the Government through fuel duty, vehicle ownership tax and road user levy so it is reasonable for them to expect a road infrastructure that supports their industry.

“FTA’s members are keen to see improvements to this pivotal road junction to help cut fuel costs and make journey times more reliable.  The upgrade will also deliver a 60% reduction in nitrogen dioxide levels according to an assessment by Belfast City Council.”

Mr Leheny said FTA was keen to be consulted on the traffic management plan that would be put in place if the works go ahead as construction would have a major impact on deliveries in and around Belfast.  He said goods vehicles would still need adequate access to the city and port.

Freight Transport Association

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