DFI announces decision to proceed with A5 dual-carriageway

by Gráinne Connolly

The Department for Infrastructure announced today, it's decision to proceed with the A5 Western Transport Corridor Scheme with construction of phase 1 due to begin in the new year. 

Commenting on the progression of the scheme, the Department's Permanent Secretary Peter May said: 

"This decision concurs with the Planning Appeals Commission recommendation that the scheme should proceed in the wider public interest. 

"Before giving approval for the scheme to proceed, careful consideration was given to the PAC Report and the Department's assessment of the environmental impacts of the scheme. 

"In proceeding with the scheme, the Department commits to carrying out the necessary actions to implement the PAC recommendations and mitigation measures as described in the Department’s Statement and the Environmental Statement.  Construction will start as soon as possible.”

Mr May also expressed the clear direction from the previous Executive, "that this Flagship Project should commence as soon as possible" and that it's a "key priority" for the region. 

It's a major scheme that will benefit not only the economy as a whole, but also improve on journey times and most importantly road safety for the thousands of daily users of this route. 

The news has been welcomed by local MPs, MLAS, and Councillors, including West Tyrone MP Barry McElduff who contacted Q Radio from Westminster:

The MP said it's important to keep pressure on both the Department of Infrastructure and the Irish Government who have committed to seeing this project through. 

Last week at a meeting, Mr McElduff also made a direct request for the Irish Government to increase the funding their giving to the A5 scheme: 
 

The first section of the A5 scheme is a 15 Kilometre stretch of new dual carriageway from New Buildings to north of Strabane and will start in early 2018. 

The Department's Permanent Secretary said it will be welcome news for the construction industry as it "should lead to an increase in demand for local suppliers of construction materials, as well as a boost to commercial trade in the surrounding area."

This phase will take an estimated cost of £150 million to deliver; and under the Fresh Start Agreement, the Irish Government has agreed to contribute £75 million over three years. 

Once the A5 Western Transport Corridor is complete, it will provide 85 kilometres of dual carriageway commencing just south of Derry-Londonderry at Newbuildings, bypassing Strabane, Newtonstewart, Omagh, Ballygawley and Aughnacloy before terminating a the existing A5 just south of Aughnacloy. 

Further phases of the scheme will be constructed on confirmation of funding, while Phase 3 (between Ballygawley and the border at Aughnacloy) remains on hold pending clarification from the Irish Government on its proposals for the adjoining N2.

This is one of five key transport corridors in the region and the proposed upgrade will improve links between urban centres in the west and provide a strategic link with international gateways.