Portaferry and Strangford

HC Deb 05 December 1973 vol 865 cc426-7W

Mr. Kilfedder

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland whether he is now in a position to make a decision about the provision of a second ferry between Portaferry and Strangford ; and what would be the estimated cost of this vessel.

Mr. David Howell

Examination of this proposal is now almost complete. It is hoped to announce a decision shortly. The latest estimate of the cost of a new vessel is £350,000.

Mr. Kilfedder

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will set up a committee to look into the feasibility of building a bridge between Portaferry and Strangford; and whether he has any estimate of the cost of building such a bridge.

Mr. David Howell

It is likely that the cost of a bridge across Strangford Lough would be not less than £4 million. It would not be helpful to set up a committee at this stage.