Phase 1 of A5 scheme could commence January 2018

by Gráinne Connolly

The Department of Infrastructure has confirmed that phase 1a of the A5 Western Transport Corridor could begin in January 2018. 

This part of the scheme will see the construction of a dual carriageway from Newbuildings to north of Strabane. 

A spokesperson for the department said:

"The A5 Western Transport Corridor is a flagshop project and the Department remains fully committed to delivery of the scheme as soon as possible. 

"Following a public inquiry on the A5 dualing scheme, administered by the Planning Appeals Commission, the Department must full consider the findings  of the Inspector's Report before any decision can be made on proceeding with the scheme. 

"Subject to a satisfactory outcome from the Report and the necessary statutory processes, the construction on Phase 1a (Newbuildings to north of Strabane) could commence in January 2018. 

This news has been welcomed by Sinn Féin MP Elisha McCallion, who said:

"I very much welcome the confirmation from the Permanent Secretary of the Department of Infrastructure, which was in response to an update we requested from him on October 5th.

“The Department is now moving ahead at pace; the letter provides a definitive timeline for the completion of all outstanding statutory processes between now and Christmas to allow work to commence on the Newbuildings to Strabane section of the A5 this coming January.

“As standard in departmental responses on the A5, it contains the caveat about potential further delay if any further legal challenge arises.

“The development of A5 is not only vital to improve road safety but is crucial to our economic and social future and any such challenge at this stage would represent a gross attempt to subvert the will and interests of people of this region. 

“Sinn Féin ensured that the A5 was a key Programme for Government Priority, that £229 million was committed to the A5 as part of the Fresh Start Agreement (including the re-instatement of €75m for the Irish government), and we are continuing to work for the necessary finance to be secured for the completion of the entire A5 project scheme.   

“As part of this, my party wrote to Irish Government Transport Minister Shane Ross TD last week requesting a meeting to discuss how the Irish government is planning to finally honour the full financial commitment it made as part of the St Andrew’s Agreement (2006) to jointly co-fund the construction of the A5 along with the Assembly Executive.”

Once complete, the A5 scheme will provide 85 kilometres of dual carriageway from Newbuildings, Co.Derry to the border at Aughnacloy, Co.Tyrone. 

It will improve links between the urban centres in the west of the province (Strabane, Newtonstewart, Omagh, Ballygawley and Aughnacloy) and provide a strategic link with international gateways. 

As well this, the transport corridor will improve road safety and reduce travel times.