To ask the Minister for Infrastructure why a permanent pedestrian crossing has not yet been installed at Frederick Street and Great Patrick Street, given the increase in students and pedestrian traffic required to cross at this junction.

My officials advise that the current layout and design of the junction meets all national standards for a junction of this type.

Officials have been working together with key stakeholders as part of the Junctions Working Group to determine the long-term arrangement for this junction and the intention would be to deliver this as part of the Department of Communities Belfast Streets Ahead Phase 3 Public Realm project.

As a result of concerns raised by Ulster University and others my Department plans to deliver an interim scheme to further enhance the existing pedestrian crossings at the York Street/ Frederick Street/Great Patrick Street junction. Work is scheduled to commence in October with completion expected in approximately 12-14 weeks and will include:

signal controlled crossing of left slip lanes (currently uncontrolled);

wider crossing points to facilitate signal controlled crossings and enhance capacity;

enhancement of pedestrian footways and larger traffic islands to increase space for waiting pedestrians; and

restaging and re-signalising of the existing junction to maximise opportunities for pedestrians to cross.

Officials have been careful to ensure that this work will complement the long-term plans for the junction.

Officials will be monitoring the operation of the junction to ensure it meets the needs of all road users, including pedestrians.

Should you have any further questions on this matter, please contact DfI Roads Eastern Division at: dfiroads.eastern@infrastructure-ni.gov.uk.