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A Co Antrim Assemblyman has welcomed an announcement by the Stormont Roads Minister that a 'high level review' of proposed upgrades to the busy A8 will be carried out.
Ulster Unionist Danny Kinahan said the review would include further consideration of the potential route through Ballynure.
"I believe that this is a very positive step, and I look forward to further discussion on the matter," he said.
"While we need better roads, and indeed key roads such as the A8, the rural community sees the project in its current form as an urban juggernaut brought about by a blinkered set of urban decisions."
Six routes for the A8 were originally suggested, and all of them go through the countryside.
Mr Kinahan is concerned that the village of Ballynure is already divided by the A8.
"There is a single road, around which there is a great deal of space. A good designer could come up with a plan for a new road, of the right standard, through the middle of the village," he said.
"If a good road were designed and built through the middle of the village, it would do that village a great service."
The MLA suggested an underpasses and overpasses could prove a "very slick" way to improve the area.
He said the current proposed route will affect eight farms.
"When building roads, there are obviously great environmental concerns to consider."
He wants a code of practice adopted between the Ulster Farmers’ Union and Road Service during work.
"There are many good ideas in the code of practice, including having a liaison and lands officer to help with the communication with farmers and, if necessary, townspeople."
Mr Kinahan said an officer could explain the planning system, the vesting system and other relevant matters.
He continued: "We know that building a road through the centre of Ballynure is the cheapest route, and it would also be easier to live with.
"I must emphasise, I am not trying to stop the road; I am trying to protect the countryside and farmers and to find a better choice," added the MLA.
(PR/BMcC)
