TUV leader questions Kennedy on commitment to A5 road project

In a Question tabled at the Stormont Assembly he also mentioned the absence of a business case and the need for the upgrade of more heavily used roads, such as the A26 and the A2.

Mr Kennedy once again outlined his position on the road saying he would await the results of the ongoing public inquiry on the road scheme.

He said the A5 dual carriageway project was being brought forward as part of an agreement between the Irish Government and the Northern Ireland Executive and that Dublin has committed to make a £400 million contribution towards both the A5 and the A8 between Belfast and Larne.

“I would like to see improvements across the Strategic Road Network which will enhance safety, reduce journey times and provide value for money.

“Therefore, I intend to consider proposed investment across my Department, including the impact of Budget 2010 on the strategic roads programme. This work will include consideration of the A5 and A8 schemes,” said Mr Kennedy.

“However, the A5 scheme is currently the subject of a public inquiry and I consider it appropriate to wait for the Independent Inspector’s report before concluding my deliberations.

“With regard to the business case for the A5, in common with the procedure for all major road projects, the business case evolves as the scheme is developed.

“The economic assessment for the A5 is contained within the scheme development reports which are available on the projects web site: http://www.a5wtc.com/. The final business case will be compiled when the scheme has been defined following the public inquiry,” he stated.