AQW 29839/22-27

Mr Peter McReynolds
Alliance Party
East Belfast

Tabled Date: 03/07/2025
Answered On Date: 10/07/2025
Priority Written: Yes

Question:
To ask the Minister for Infrastructure, of the total budget, set aside for construction of the A5 Western Transport Corridor scheme during the 2025-26; and 2026-27, financial years, to detail the amount which may now be re-allocated to the construction of bypasses at an advanced state of planning, such as Cookstown, Enniskillen and Ballynahinch, in order to enhance air quality in those towns.

Answer:

I am carefully considering the implications of the judgement in the A5 case. The judgement is lengthy and complex and raises a number of issues that we need to deal with. At this stage, it is too early to identify the budgetary implications of the ruling but my priority is to find the right solution that sees the A5 built as quickly as I can so that no more lives are lost.

Budgets have not yet been agreed for the 2026-27 financial year, however, this remains an Executive flagship project, and I am determined to deliver it.