Infrastructure Minister is encouraging the local
community in Cookstown to have their say on the wider social
value benefits they would like to see delivered as part of the
A29 Cookstown Bypass scheme.
Major roads project contracts are now assessed on the basis of
social value, as well as cost and quality. Social value allows
organisations, like DfI, to consider how their activities can
create positive social, environmental and economic benefits for
residents, businesses and stakeholders that may be impacted. Your
feedback will be vital in ensuring that this scheme brings the
best opportunities for the people of Cookstown.
Minister Kimmins said: “The proposed A29 Cookstown Bypass
is of strategic importance to the town and its surrounding area
as it aims to alleviate traffic congestion, reduce journey times
and improve road safety and the town centre environment. We
must also consider how we can create social value benefits for
local residents, businesses and key stakeholders that may be
impacted by the construction of the A29 Cookstown
Bypass. This can take many forms including
employment, apprenticeships or skills development opportunities
for local people. It could also provide support for health and
well-being initiatives within the local community.
“Local communities know their own needs better than any
of us and this is their opportunity to derive maximum social
value benefits from the A29 Cookstown Bypass scheme. My
Department will be hosting a Social
Value information event between 2pm and 8pm on
Tuesday 7 October in the Burnavon Arts and Cultural Centre. This
will provide an opportunity for local residents
and stakeholders to engage with Departmental
staff and their social value team.
“I encourage the local residents and the
business community to take part in this public engagement
exercise and importantly
provide their feedback via the online
survey.”
Cllr Kevin Savage, Chair of the MSW Region Governance Steering
Group, said: “The A29 Cookstown Bypass is a vital project for Mid
Ulster and the wider Mid South West region, with the potential to
improve connectivity, reduce congestion and support economic
growth. Through the Mid South West Growth Deal we want to
maximise the benefits of transformational investments like this
and ensure that the community is at the heart of the
opportunities it creates. I would encourage residents, businesses
and community groups to take part in the consultation and help
shape the wider value this project can deliver.”
The survey is open online at the following link: https://www.infrastructure-ni.gov.uk/consultations/social-value-engagement-survey-a29-cookstown-bypass
and will close at 12pm on Monday 27 October 2025.
Notes to editors:
- More information on the Cookstown Bypass Scheme is available
at the Department's website at A29 Cookstown Bypass -
overview | Department for Infrastructure
