15th October 2024: Hypothetically, based on all the information and analysis carried out thus far, below is the desired response sought from the DfI Minister; one can hope, at least that’s free !
Dear Mr. Barry,
Thank you for your comprehensive and persuasive letter regarding the proposed alternative crossing for Strangford Lough. I am writing to inform you that after careful consideration of the points you raised, and in light of new analysis of the ferry service’s long-term financial performance, we have decided to move forward with a feasibility study for a permanent crossing.
Your arguments have compellingly demonstrated the potential long-term benefits of this infrastructure project:
- Long-term Economic Benefits: We agree that improved connectivity would significantly boost tourism, attract new businesses, and catalyze regional development. The ripple effect of economic benefits extending beyond the initial investment is particularly appealing.
- Quality of Life Improvements: The potential for substantially reduced travel times and increased access to services, education, and employment opportunities for local residents is a key factor in our decision.
- Environmental Considerations: Your point about a permanent crossing potentially being more environmentally friendly in the long-term than the current ferry service is well-taken. We are particularly interested in the potential reduction in emissions from idling vehicles and the ferry itself.
- Safety and Reliability: While the current ferry service has performed admirably, we recognize that a permanent crossing would offer unparalleled safety and reliability, especially during adverse weather conditions. This is crucial for emergency services and daily commuters alike.
- Population Growth and Future Demand: We agree that acting now to address future needs is a proactive and wise approach to infrastructure planning.
- Comparative Analysis: The success of similar projects, such as the Øresund Bridge, has been noted and provides encouragement for the potential of this project.
- Broader Regional Impact: We are excited about the potential for this project to stimulate economic growth across a wider area, attracting new residents and businesses to the entire region.
- Public-Private Partnership: We are very interested in exploring innovative funding models for this project and appreciate your suggestion to consider a public-private partnership approach.
- Strategic Importance: Upon reflection, we agree that this crossing aligns with our broader national and regional development goals and could indeed be considered a strategic infrastructure project.
- Community Support: The strong community backing for this project, as evidenced by your ongoing survey, is a significant factor in our decision.
A critical factor in our decision-making process has been the new analysis of the ferry service’s long-term financial performance. The 40% cost recovery rate over the period from 1969 to 2024 indicates that the current model is not financially sustainable in the long term. This revelation suggests that a permanent crossing could potentially offer better value for money over its lifespan.
Given these considerations, we have decided to take the following steps:
- Commission a comprehensive feasibility study: We will immediately begin the process of commissioning a detailed feasibility study for the Strangford Lough crossing. This study will consider all aspects including economic benefits, environmental impact, engineering challenges, and financing options.
- Seek Shared Island Funding: We will apply for funding from the Shared Island Fund to support this feasibility study, emphasizing the project’s potential to enhance cross-border connectivity and economic cooperation.
- Establish a Stakeholder Working Group: We will create a working group comprising local representatives, business leaders, environmental experts, and infrastructure specialists to guide the feasibility study and subsequent planning processes.
- Explore Innovative Financing: We will investigate various financing models, including public-private partnerships, to determine the most effective way to fund this significant infrastructure project.
- Integrate with Regional Planning: We will ensure that the potential Strangford Lough crossing is fully considered in our upcoming Transport Strategy and Regional Strategic Transport Network Transport Plan.
We believe this project has the potential to be a transformative piece of infrastructure for Northern Ireland, improving connectivity, stimulating economic growth, and enhancing quality of life for residents. Your advocacy and detailed arguments have been instrumental in bringing about this change in approach.
We look forward to working closely with you and the local community as we move forward with this exciting project. Thank you once again for your passionate and well-researched proposal.
Yours sincerely,
[Minister’s Name]
Minister for Infrastructure