Kimmins welcomes A5 Court of Appeal judgment

Date published: 6 October 2026

Minister Kimmins said: “I am delighted with the Court of Appeal judgment which represents a significant and an important milestone for this vital road safety and infrastructure project. I know this outcome will come as a huge relief to many people particularly the families who tragically lost loved ones on the existing A5 and who have campaigned tirelessly over many years for a safer road.   Today is their day, they have campaigned for this through unimaginable grief and loss and they never gave up. My thoughts are primarily with them today as we move into the delivery phase of this life saving project.   I am sure as much as they are relieved, it does not take their pain away.

“While I will take time to consider the detail of the judgment, it provided important legal clarity and vindicates the Department’s position throughout, that it complied with the requirements of the Climate Change Act.  This is a very welcome outcome, providing the certainty needed not only for the A5 Western Transport Corridor (A5WTC) but for the delivery of major infrastructure projects across the North. I will continue to work with DAERA and Executive colleagues to support infrastructure delivery while maintaining our climate ambitions.

“The need for the A5WTC has never been clearer. This scheme is fundamentally about improving road safety, saving lives, supporting economic growth and delivering a modern transport connection for communities across the north west.

“My officials will be working at pace to ensure construction on this important strategic route can begin as soon as possible.  This will involve completing the remaining checks and approvals as well as getting agreement on costs with the current contractors.

“Any party to the litigation may seek leave to appeal. The Department will respond appropriately to any such application if that occurs and will continue to act in accordance with legal advice and due process. I would appeal to anyone considering further legal action to reflect carefully on the lives at risk on the existing A5 and on the consequences of any further delay to this vital road safety project.

“I recognise that this judgment has significant implications for landowners affected by the scheme. Many have experienced years of uncertainty as a result of the prolonged legal process. My officials will engage directly with landowners to explain the implications of the judgment, provide updates on the anticipated next steps and ensure that they continue to receive clear and timely information as the project progresses.

“Today’s judgment is a pivotal moment for the project and a significant step towards its successful delivery. 

“As I have consistently said I remain fully committed to progressing the A5WTC as quickly as possible.

“Above all, this project is about saving lives. For too long, communities along the A5 have witnessed the devastating consequences of a road that falls short of the standard that people deserve. Too many families have suffered unimaginable loss, and too many have waited far too long to see progress. While important legal and governance processes remain, this judgment brings us a significant step closer to delivering the safer, modern road network that people across the north west need and deserve. I am determined that we will now build on this momentum, continue to progress the project responsibly and lawfully, and do everything possible to bring forward a safer A5 for current and future generations."