Ards and North Down Borough Council councillors unanimously supported a motion calling on Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins to commission a feasibility study for a bridge across Strangford Lough from Portaferry to Strangford village.

Alderman Robert Adair and Councillor Nigel Edmund, both from the DUP, proposed the motion at the council's Place and Prosperity committee. Adair stated that the campaign for the bridge dates to the 1950s and receives strong backing from residents. He argued that the structure would reduce isolation on the Ards peninsula, support businesses, attract tourists, cut hospital and ambulance delays, and ease traffic on Portaferry Road.

Adair noted that Minister Kimmins recently informed the Assembly of £300m allocated for the project and prior feasibility work. She indicated openness to further study if political support and economic benefits exist, subject to budget availability.

Councillor Nigel Edmund referenced his late uncle Joe Hagan's prior advocacy for the bridge. He suggested toll booths at each end to cover maintenance and said it would improve ambulance access.

Ulster Unionist Councillor Craig Blaney backed the letter to the minister provided the Department for Infrastructure funds the study. Independent Councillor Tom Brady called the absence of a bridge unreasonable due to lengthy drives when the ferry operates unreliably.

The committee decision requires ratification at the full council meeting later this month.