Stormont Approves A5 Road Upgrade Project

The A5 road upgrade project in Northern Ireland, estimated to cost £1.2 billion with €600 million from the Irish government, has received the green light from Infrastructure Minister John O'Dowd, with work commencing in early 2025. The first phase will focus on the Strabane to Ballygawley section, an area noted for a high number of fatalities, with 54 lives lost since 2007. The project has faced numerous delays due to legal challenges and funding issues since its initial proposal in 2007. The upgrade is seen as a significant step towards improving road safety and enhancing economic connectivity in the region. Local leaders have expressed support, highlighting the project’s potential to save lives and boost the economy, despite concerns for affected landowners. A formal decision on the entire project is expected to follow shortly after initial preparations are completed.