Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins is reviewing options for the York Street Interchange in north Belfast. Officials presented findings to her after completing work on a Placemaking and Active Travel Review. The project aims to rework the junction of the M2, M3 and Westlink to reduce congestion into the city.

The Department for Infrastructure states the scheme lacks funding through City and Growth deals or as an Executive Flagship project. Officials are exploring alternative funding methods to advance it. In October 2022, then Minister John O’Dowd published the review and directed further refinement of options.

DUP infrastructure spokesman Peter Martin called for Minister Caoimhe Archibald to provide a plan and timeline for delivery. He noted officials estimated 11 years to completion two years ago. UUP infrastructure spokesman John Stewart MLA urged treating the project as an urgent national priority with firm funding and a realistic timetable.

The DUP secured funding for the project in its 2017 confidence-and-supply deal with the Tories. Progress stalled under SDLP Minister Nichola Mallon after the Assembly returned. Little advancement occurred under Sinn Fein successors.

Minister Kimmins paused schemes including the Enniskillen bypass, which had funding and permissions. The Department for Infrastructure remains committed to the Enniskillen bypass, A5, A1 junctions upgrade and Lagan Bridge project.