Alliance East Belfast MLA Chris Lyttle has welcomed announcement of a major investment in a toucan crossing, linking Braniel with the Connswater Greenway, saying it marks the culmination of a long-running campaign.

The Department for Infrastructure said the £288,000 pedestrian and cyclist signal upgrade on the A55 Knock Road dual carriageway, at its junction with the Glen Road, would be complete by the end of July.

“Alliance representatives have campaigned with Braniel residents and Connswater Community Greenway staff for this enhanced crossing for many years,” said Mr Lyttle.

“Alliance Ormiston Councillors Peter McReynolds, Sian Mulholland and Ross McMullan collected hundreds of Braniel signatures for a petition I was glad to present to the Infrastructure Minister at the Assembly, following previous site visits from her Department.

“I am delighted the Minister has listened to our campaign and taken action. This investment will significantly improve safety at this crossing and access for Braniel residents to the award-winning Connswater Community Greenway, and all the physical and mental health benefits that will bring. We will of course also continue to campaign for much-needed investment in an enhanced crossing to link the Greenway and the Cregagh Glen at the Cregagh Road and A55 junction.”