Statement from the Department for Infrastructure on dismissal of the legal challenge to the Castledawson to Toome section of the A6 Dualling Scheme
Date published:
A spokesperson for the Department for Infrastructure said: “Today’s decision means 18,000 road users and the local community are set to directly benefit as the new dual carriageway will reduce journey times and improve road safety.
"The scheme is predicted to result in a saving of almost 600 collisions over its 60 year economic life.
"The ruling has also recognised the care and attention we take, with the statutory environmental bodies, to preserve, protect and develop environmentally sensitive areas under consideration for road development.
“The local construction industry will also see a considerable benefit with this £160 million scheme delivering local jobs and investment. The Department has committed to introducing ‘Buy Social’ clauses into this contract which will generate new entrant trainee employment in the form of apprenticeships and graduate jobs. The works will specifically create between 15 and 20 new paid employment and training opportunities over the construction period.
“Preliminary works on the project have continued to be progressed in accordance with the environmental commitments given and the objective is to complete the scheme in 2021. It is the Department’s intention to commence major construction works on the scheme as soon as possible.”
Notes to editors:
- The A6 forms part of the North-Western Key Transport Corridor and is the main road connecting the major hub cities of Belfast and Derry. It provides an important link for business, commuters, local residents and tourism. This section of the A6 currently carries approximately 18,000 vehicles per day and suffers congestion at peak times.
- Budget approval for the project funding was agreed by the NI Executive through its 2016-17 Budget, published on 19 January 2016, which not only provided budget for the 2016-17 year, but also agreed budget up to 2020-21 for a number of ‘Flagship Projects’ of which the A6 was one. This was in recognition of the need to provide future funding certainty for these important projects.
- More information is available on the A6 Scheme Webpage.
- All media queries should be directed to the Department for Infrastructure Press Office on 028 9054 0007. Out of hours, please contact the duty press officer via pager number 07623 974 383 and your call will be returned.