SDLP MLA Daniel McCrossan has demanded the development of the A5 goes ahead, despite a Stormont department's decision to no longer defend against the legal challenge.

Northern Ireland's biggest road project, the A5 Western Transport Corridor Scheme, would create a new 85km road running from New Buildings, via Strabane, Newtownstewart, Omagh and Ballygawley and terminating near the border at Aughnacloy.

Construction was set to begin earlier this year at the cost of £150million, but was put on hold when judicial proceedings were launched by umbrella opposition group the Alternative A5 Alliance.

In a High Court hearing today, Thursday 15 November, Counsel for the Department of Infrastructure requested it's previous decision to press ahead with the scheme be quashed.

The concession is based on approval for the multi-million pound dual carriageway upgrade having been given in the absence of a government minister.

The SDLP MLA has been a vocal supporter of the A5, and said the recent decision is not a victory for the opposition, but the scheme should proceed under new Civil Servant powers legislation.

"I still have full confidence the scheme will go ahead next Autumn if officials progress it under new legislation introduced by the Secretary of State. This legislation negates the AA5A’s main legal argument," the west Tyrone MLA said.

"It is reprehensible that we have gotten to this stage to begin with. The AA5A and their actions have been deplorable. How they can proceed with a court case when tens of families across the region have unnecessarily lost loves ones is beyond me."

The SDLP MLA continued that the road development will "prevent death, increase investment and grow connectivity" and has widespread public support.

"I am now calling on the Department, it’s Permanent Secretary, to again move ahead with the legal orders necessary to progress the A5 and deliver first class infrastructure for the area. This must be soon as soon as practically possible."



(JG/MH)