Context
The MP noted the critical importance of the A75 and A77 roads leading to Cairnryan ferry port for both passenger and freight traffic between Scotland and Northern Ireland. He referenced a recent incident where the A75 was closed due to an overturned lorry, highlighting ongoing concerns about road conditions.
Question
What assessment has been made of the potential impact of the adequacy of the A75 and A77 roads leading to Cairnryan ferry port on the Northern Ireland economy? There cannot be a person in Northern Ireland who has not either been along the A75 or the A77 or had something delivered to them that has been driven through the ferry port at Cairnryan. We in Dumfries and Galloway and people across Scotland know that these are the highways from hell. This morning, even as we speak, the A75 has been closed by another overturned lorry. We are crying out for improvements. Can I count on the support of the might of the Northern Ireland Office to get the Department for Transport here to engage, as well as the Scottish Government?
Answer from The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (Hilary Benn)
I echo the hon. Gentleman’s point, having driven along the road myself. My notes helpfully say that average speeds on the A75 and A77 are lower than on several other Scottish trunk roads—you can say that again. I think that the Secretary of State for Scotland has written to him and offered a meeting to discuss the issue. We all want to see the road improved.
Not addressed: The MP requested a specific commitment from the Northern Ireland Office, but the response was more supportive of addressing the issue without concrete engagement plans with the Department for Transport and Scottish Government.
How: Echoing The Hon. Gentleman’S Point, Acknowledging Speed Issues
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