A5 Road Appeal Highlights Safety and Climate Concerns

Northern Ireland's Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins will appeal a High Court ruling that halted the £1.2–£1.7 billion A5 dual carriageway project for failing to comply with climate change targets. The court found insufficient evidence that the project would meet legally binding net-zero emissions commitments by 2050, although it acknowledged the upgrade’s urgent societal benefits and suggested its shortcomings could potentially be remedied. The A5, a dangerous route with over 50 fatalities since 2006, is a priority for road safety and regional connectivity. Repeated legal challenges have come from residents, farmers, and landowners worried about environmental impact and land loss. Kimmins pledged to work with campaigners and legal counsel to strengthen the appeal and address compliance issues. The appeal aims to reconcile the need for improved infrastructure with climate legislation obligations.