Stormont minister: NI to Scotland bridge would be ‘significant waste’

The SDLP MLA said that the resources could be “put to better use by addressing pressures and deliverable projects here in Northern Ireland”.

Ms Mallon also said she was surprised and disappointed that Prime Minister Boris Johnston announced he had asked UK officials to look into the feasibility of the bridge without consulting her department.

She said transport is a devolved matter and her counterpart in Scotland, the Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Infrastructure and Connectivity, shares her concerns.

The SDLP deputy leader made the comments in a letter to the Secretary of State for Transport, Grant Shapps.

“I want to make it clear that a lack of investment by successive British Governments has, for a number of years, restricted the necessary investment in vital infrastructure and public transport here,” she added.

“This has held back progress for our communities in Northern Ireland. I am clear that infrastructure investment should be focused on projects that will improve lives, boost connectivity and our economy, enhance our communities and work to address the climate crisis.

“I am requesting clarity on exactly what is proposed by British Government ministers and I would also welcome an explanation as to why ministers and officials here have not been consulted in advance of the announcement.

“I also want to make clear that significant investment is needed in our infrastructure and the New Decade: New Approach document makes several key commitments on behalf of the British Government, which I also expect to see honoured.

“By spending just a fraction of the reported cost of this bridge, we could bring significantly more benefits to people.”