Northern Ireland Road Upgrade Clears Legal Hurdle
Court of Appeal overturns ruling blocking A5 dual carriageway project, Infrastructure Minister urges officials to proceed.
The Court of Appeal has overturned a judicial decision that had halted work on the A5 dual carriageway upgrade, one of Northern Ireland's most significant infrastructure projects. Lady Chief Justice Dame Siobhan Keegan stated that a previous ruling from 2025 was "problematic" and could not be sustained.
The A5 project, intended to create a dual carriageway between Londonderry and Aughnacloy in County Tyrone, has faced protracted delays for nearly two decades due to funding and legal challenges. Environmental impact and the effect on farmland were among the concerns raised by opponents.
However, campaigners have long advocated for the road's improvement, citing a significant safety record. Official figures indicate that 57 people have died on the A5 over the past 18 years.
Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins, whose department led the appeal, expressed her delight with the ruling and has instructed officials to "get on with the job."
"I am absolutely delighted with the ruling and have instructed my officials to now get on with the job," Kimmins said.
A legal representative for the Alternative A5 Alliance, a coalition of landowners and farmers opposing the upgrade, stated that his clients would thoroughly review the judgment. He added that his clients have consistently supported rigorous legal scrutiny of the A5 project.
The redevelopment scheme for the road initially received approval from Stormont ministers in October 2024. The appeal court's decision allows construction to recommence on the major undertaking.