SLC and the pending Eastern Transport Plan (ETP) 2035

Strategic Alignment Between SLC and Eastern Transport Plan (ETP) 2035

Full Title References:

  • Eastern Transport Plan (ETP) 2035 – Department for Infrastructure
  • Eastern Transport Plan (ETP) 2035 – FAQs – Department for Infrastructure
  • Active Travel Delivery Plan (ATDP) – Department for Infrastructure
  • Sub-Regional Economic Plan Technical Annex – Department for Economy

Direct Strategic Alignment

1. Geographic Coverage Synchronisation The Eastern Transport Plan covers five council areas, including Ards and North Down Borough Council (ANDBC), which is precisely where the SLC would be located. This places the SLC directly within the ETP’s operational framework and strategic planning remit.

2. ETP 2035 Vision Compatibility The ETP’s vision to “Deliver an integrated and re-balanced transport network in favour of sustainable, efficient modes, which connects communities creating an accessible, inclusive, safe and prosperous economic region” directly supports the SLC proposal, which would create permanent connectivity replacing the limited ferry service, which is scheduled at 63% of total time available and falls often to 34% with breakdowns and industrial action.

3. Strategic Objectives Alignment The ETP objectives specifically include:

  • “Reduce travel distances by promoting safe, inclusive and connected neighbourhoods” – The SLC would eliminate the current 75km detour via Newtownards when not operational.
  • “Support the efficient, sustainable movement of goods and people” – Fixed crossing provides 24/7 reliable freight and passenger connectivity
  • “Enhance the resilience and safety of the transport network” – Permanent crossing removes weather dependencies and service limitations

Economic Development Integration

Cross-Referenced Analysis with Sub-Regional Economic Plan:

  • Ards & North Down has the lowest median wages in Northern Ireland (£450.10 weekly)
  • The area has the second lowest productivity despite high education levels
  • The SLC directly addresses the economic connectivity constraints identified in regional planning

Transport Infrastructure Priorities: The Active Travel Delivery Plan identifies Newtownards and Comber as priority settlements for active travel networks, with specific route mappings showing:

  • Priority Routes connecting key attractors
  • Integration with public transport nodes
  • Future route development potential

The SLC would enhance these local networks by providing the missing strategic connection across Strangford Lough.

Multi-Modal Transport Integration

ETP Multi-Modal Approach: The Eastern Transport Plan emphasises “multi-modal” planning that “balances space for active travel, public transport, and necessary vehicular transport.” The SLC proposal aligns with this by:

  • Incorporating cycling and pedestrian facilities
  • Connecting with existing public transport networks
  • Supporting freight and business connectivity

Active Travel Connectivity: The consultation document on the Active Travel Delivery Plan specifically prioritises:

  • Connections to local schools – The SLC would improve access to educational facilities on both sides of the lough
  • Connections to public transport – Integration with existing bus and rail networks
  • Connections to town centres – Enhanced access to Portaferry and Strangford communities

Regional Balance and Rural Connectivity

ETP Rural Coverage: The ETP FAQs confirm that the plan “covers the entire council areas” including “rural areas,” with priority given to schemes that “best meet the plans objectives.” The SLC addresses a critical rural connectivity gap that directly supports the ETP’s inclusive transport network vision.

Belfast Region City Deal Integration: Referenced in the Sub-Regional Economic Plan, Lisburn and Castlereagh (also within the ETP area) benefits from £80m allocated to the “Belfast Region Digital Programme.” The SLC would complement this digital infrastructure investment by providing physical connectivity infrastructure.

Climate and Sustainability Alignment

Carbon Reduction Objectives: The ETP aims for “carbon reduction, improving air quality, enhancing the built and natural environment.” The SLC supports this through:

  • Eliminating ferry emissions
  • Reducing journey distances and fuel consumption
  • Enabling sustainable transport mode integration

Environmental Integration: The ETP’s “vision and validate” approach considers environmental factors, and the SLC proposal includes provisions for “minimal marine habitat disruption” and sustainable design features.

Implementation Framework

Phased Development Approach: The ETP adopts a “phased approach in alignment with the publication of each council’s draft Local Development Plan.” This provides the framework for integrating SLC planning with local development strategies.

Collaborative Planning: The ETP team “proactively works collaboratively with all councils,” providing the mechanism for SLC integration with Ards and North Down Borough Council’s development planning.

Conclusion

The Strangford Lough Crossing demonstrates comprehensive alignment with Eastern Transport proposals and strategies. The project would directly contribute to achieving the ETP 2035 vision while addressing specific regional economic and connectivity challenges identified in government planning documents. The SLC represents a strategic infrastructure investment that supports the integrated, multi-modal approach advocated in current transport planning frameworks.

The convergence of geographic coverage, strategic objectives, economic development priorities, and sustainability goals creates a compelling case for viewing the SLC as a complementary element within the broader Eastern Transport strategic framework.