AQO 3079/22-27

Mr Eóin Tennyson
Alliance Party
Upper Bann

Tabled Date: 29/01/2026
Answered On Date: 09/02/2026
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for Infrastructure for an update on the A1 Junctions Phase 2 project.

Answer:

The A1 Junctions Phase 2 Project will deliver enhanced safety measures along a 25km stretch of the A1 route between Loughbrickland and Hillsborough, costing in the region of £120 - £130m and will include the closing up of all gaps in the central median and the provision of a number of new grade separated junctions.

The scheme was confirmed by my predecessor as a single package of works on 2 July 2024 and a restricted list was notified to tenderers on 9 May 2025.

I recently instructed officials to extend the restricted list for a period of 12 months to 5 February 2027, continuing to keep this important scheme viable pending the outcome of the A5 appeal.

We have to await the Court of Appeal's ruling, because it is important that we consider it fully when looking at the next steps for all major roads projects, as we do not want to be in a scenario where we face challenges on everything.

Whilst I want to see the project delivered at the earliest possible stage, it is critical that we consider the outcome of the appeal before taking the next steps.

Every death on our roads is a profound loss to the community and unfortunately the A1 is a road that has been impacted exponentially by tragic circumstances. I remain committed to the construction of this vitally important infrastructure safety upgrade, and will take all actions available to me to secure its delivery.