NI Infrastructure Minister pledges progress on A5 and A6

The North’s Infrastructure Minister has said he wants to see progress on the A5 and A6 sooner rather than later.
Chris Hazzard was speaking at the Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce “Minister on the Move” event in Derry last night.
Mr Hazzard said he is committed to delivering on the A5 and the A6, desctribing them as hugely significant projects that will finally address the historical infrastructure deficit west of the Bann.
He said the A6 route between Derry and Belfast is a vital link, and he is determined to drive this project forward and complete the scheme to Drumahoe.
Construction of the first phase of the A5 Western Transport Corridor, from Newbuildings to north of Strabane, is due to begin next year, subject to the successful completion of the statutory procedures.
Mr Hazzard said he is now looking at how funding could be increased to expedite delivery of the whole scheme.
The commitments have been welcomed by the Chamber of Commerce in Derry, which says in the loing term, the roads will extend the region’s travel to work area and reduce commuting times. In addition, Chamber says, the construction phase will itself create local jobs.