The A4 Enniskillen Southern Bypass will go ahead next year, it has been confirmed by Infrastructure Minister, John O'Dowd.

There had been some concern that the project may not go ahead as when the UK Government pulled the Mid South West Growth Deal, part of the bypass funding was due to come from the deal. 

However, Minister O'Dowd today confirmed that funding is secure, saying: "Earlier this year the Executive committed £16.2million of Capital Funding to the Enniskillen Bypass Scheme alongside the approved early release of £12.5million from the Executive’s contribution to the Mid South West Growth Deal.

“Since then, my officials have been working diligently to progress this significant scheme with a view to construction starting in 2025.

"Recently a shortlist of contractors was invited to bid for the scheme’s construction contract.

“I know there had been some concern from people in Enniskillen that the scheme might be impacted by the decision of the UK Government to pause the Mid South West Growth Deal.

"I am pleased to be able to give reassurance that the Executive has confirmed the full cost of the scheme will be met from Executive funding, and it can proceed to construction next year as originally planned.” 

DUP MLA Deborah Erskine welcomed the funding, but urged that it must not be seen as a replacement for the Mid South Growth Deal.

She said: "The Labour Government’s decision to pause the City and Growth Deal had raised concerns that the bypass might face further delays.

"I made that point to the Northern Ireland Secretary of State in a letter, and also raised the importance of the Mid South West Growth Deal with the Deputy First Minister, Emma Little-Pengelly.

"I am therefore pleased that the Executive has shown its commitment by securing the funding to move this project into the construction phase in 2025.

"However, this funding must not be seen as a replacement for the Mid South West Growth Deal.

"The Government must lift the current pause and ensure the region benefits fully from that wider package.

"The DUP will continue to press the Government to honour its commitments to this area and to my constituents."