NI Minister sets out A5 and A6 plans

Infrastructure Minister Chris Hazzard is committed to delivering the A5 and A6 road improvement projects in Northern Ireland.

Speaking at the NI Chamber of Commerce Minister on the Move event in Derry, Minister Hazzard said he was determined to deliver infrastructure projects to connect people and address the infrastructure deficit west of the Bann.

The Minister said: “The Executive’s Programme for government is focussed on outcomes – outcomes that will create a prosperous economic future that will deliver for all our people.  The sustainability and growth of our economy means having in place infrastructure that meets the needs of our people and our economy. Put simply the economy here in the North, and indeed across the whole island cannot grow if the infrastructure is not in place to support it.

“Improving transport connections is vital. The Executive has already made clear that flagship projects including the A5 and A6 are key to building connectivity and unlocking economic potential.

“I want to assure you that I am committed to deliver on these hugely significant projects that will finally address the historical infrastructure deficit west of the Bann.”

The A6 route connects Derry and Belfast – two of Northern Ireland’s biggest cities.

Minister Hazzard continued: “Construction of the first phase of the A5 Western Transport Corridor, from Newbuildings to north of Strabane, is due to begin in 2017 subject to the successful completion of the statutory procedures. However, I am currently looking at how funding could be increased to expedite delivery of the A5 scheme.”