A5 Carriageway 'Delayed, Not Abandoned'

Regional Development Minister Danny Kennedy has said the proposed dual carriageway scheme for the A5 between L'Derry and Ballygawley has been "delayed, but not abandoned".

The Minister was speaking to a delegation of City Council Chairs and Chief Executives on this week.

In April a High Court judge quashed a decision to proceed with the £330m project, as it was felt that there had been insufficient planning to ensure there would not be an adverse affect on the rural community and economy.

At the Derry City Council meeting on Wednesday, Minister Kennedy assured the delegation that the Executive recognised the importance of the A5 as a strategic route for economic, social and community development in the area.

Minister Kennedy highlighted that all but one of the 12 grounds for challenge taken at the Judicial Review were rejected by Judge Stephens, and he said steps were being taken to rectify the outstanding issue.

Members of the delegation reiterated to the Minister their support for the development, calling it a "key priority" for councils along the route.

Members also discussed with the Minister the development of a revised programme for the funding and implementation of the entire A5 project.

Minister Kennedy said the A5 dual carriageway project is a joint project between the Northern Ireland Executive and The Irish Government and that both governments remain committed to its completion.

(IT/MH)