Private cash to fund the A6road project

Whether this will involve tolling once the road is complete or private finance initiative loans up front is unclear.

But the Investment Strategy for Northern Ireland 2011-21 says all funding options will be considered in a manner that protects the public interest and offers long-term value for money.

Roads Minister Danny Kennedy promised to make a Departmental statement on the roads scheme - including the Dungiven bypass - after the Inspector of the Public Inquiry into the A6 delivers his report at the end of this month.

Mr Kennedy said he is highly supportive of the scheme, which the Investment Strategy includes as part of a £390m roads package to be funded through alternative finance in the period 2015/16 to 2020/21. Once the Inspector’s report is made available a Departmental Statement will be issued.

Regardless of his support for the scheme and the outcome of the Inquiry Mr Kennedy said the timing of the road project will depend on resources.

“A commitment to fund the revenue consequences of this roads package will be required, therefore, the timing will depend upon future resource budget settlements.

“In the event of alternative finance not being available, the scheme could be included, together with other priority schemes, in the bidding process for conventional funds, in the next Budget period,” he explained.