“Evidence is not ‘Nonsense’ A comment appeared online this week dismissing the suggestion that young families are leaving the Ards Peninsula because of the cost and inconvenience of the ferry, and that falling school enrolments are a consequence. The word used was: “Nonsense.” I said I would prove it. Here is the proof. Every figure […]

Ards Peninsula: The Cost of Standing Still (2026–2036) Why this is no longer just a transport issue — but an economic and school survival issue Executive summary (read this first) Over the next 10 years, doing nothing on connectivity will cost the Ards Peninsula £1.0bn–£2.15bn — and could trigger the loss or weakening of up […]

STRANGFORD LOUGH CROSSING CAMPAIGN Campaign Update — 14 April 2026 Kevin Barry BSc(Hons) MRICS Chartered Quantity Surveyor, Portaferry www.strangfordloughcrossing.org | mail@kevinbarryqs.com THE BI-COUNCIL MANDATE IS NOW COMPLETE Both councils have spoken. The ball is firmly in the Minister’s court. Newry, Mourne and Down District Council has now passed a formal resolution calling for an independent […]

Strangford Lough Low Carbon Corridor Why the case comes first on climate and resilience For decades, the idea of a fixed crossing over Strangford Lough has remained a long-running proposal rather than a delivered project. That position is no longer sustainable. With storm damage on the A20, mounting climate pressure and legally binding net-zero duties, […]

Subject: Newry, Mourne & Down District Councillors – Strangford Lough Crossing – Seeking Your Support Ahead of Upcoming Debate (Direct email sent to each and every Newry Councillor) Dear Councillor, I hope this email finds you well. I am writing ahead of the upcoming debate on the proposed Strangford Lough Crossing (SLC) to respectfully seek […]

Witnessing the A5 debacle, where frustration, through using the legal processes is prioritized over the greater good of saving lives. Below is our viewpoint if necessary infrastructure works are to be progressed, whether roads, bridges, water, sewers or utilities. In China, it is a family honour to make way for a key infrastructure project, where […]

The Road Where People Die While Money Disappears Since 2006, at least 57 people have been killed on the A5, with more than 1,200 people injured in crashes along its 58‑mile length. BBC analysis shows that, between 2012 and 2024, the A5 had the highest death rate per kilometre of any major road in Northern […]