A5: Work could begin on part of road project in 2017

Michelle McIlveen made the announcement in Strabane on Thursday

Northern Ireland's transport minister has announced that work could begin on part of the A5 between Newbuildings to Strabane in 2017.

Michelle McIlveen said there will be a new public consultation on the £150m project which will see part of the road upgraded to a dual carriageway.

The planned upgrade of the A5 between Ballygawley and the Irish border will not go ahead at this stage.

The new A5 would lessen journey times by 20 minutes.

Consultation process

Martin McGuinness issued an ultimatum in October saying he would not agree a programme for government after the assembly election if work on the A5 did not commence in 2016.

Almost £500m has been allocated to upgrade the Londonderry to Belfast and Londonderry to Dublin roads.

The Irish government said in November, after the Fresh Start deal, that it was willing to provide £75m towards modernising the A5.

The story of the A5 so far:

• The preferred route for the A5 was announced in 2009

• An inquiry was ordered in May 2011 into the environmental impact of the scheme

• The Irish government reduced its funding for the project from £400m to £42m in November 2011

• A public inquiry into the road was found in favour of the scheme going ahead in July 2012

• The project stalled again in 2013 due to a ruling by the High Court.

• The Irish government said in 2014 it would review its decision to withdraw funding

• In November, following the Fresh Start Agreement, the Irish government said it was ready to provide £75m towards the A5

Transport Minister Michelle McIlveen said on Thursday: "Today's announcement will begin a consultation process which, subject to successful completion of statutory procedures, will see construction start next year.

"This important project will not only have positive benefits for the local economy and construction industry but will also significantly improve safety and journey times for all road users."

Once the consultation period has concluded "a decision will be made on the need for a public inquiry on the scheme," said Ms McIlveen.

"I am currently seeking accelerated passage for the land acquisition and compensation bill. This would bring compensation levels for landowners in Northern Ireland affected by compulsory land purchase on a par with England and Wales."