SDLP West Tyrone MLA Daniel McCrossan has called for the publication of a report into the A5 so work on the road can begin as soon as possible.

The Planning Appeals Commission has delivered its report to the Department for Infrastructure following a public inquiry.

Mr McCrossan said that it was clear the redevelopment of the road had the support of the local community.

West Tyrone MLA Mr McCrossan said:

“The delivery of the PAC’s report to the department is another important step in seeing this long overdue work carried out on the A5 road. I would urge the department to publish the report as soon as possible so that we can see work begin early next year on the first phase of this project, with a view to the scheme being completed by 2025 at the latest.

“I have stood with campaigners throughout this long and arduous process and pay tribute to them to their efforts. Even with every kind of obstacle imaginable thrown in their way they never lost hope, determined to see this road delivered so that no one else would lose their lives and no other family would be plunged into grief at losing a loved one.

“This must be the final hurdle into delivering this project, there can be no more false dawns. There is huge frustration and anger that it has taken so long to get to this point and that more people have been killed on this road in the interim. I would urge those who have fought against this to finally stand aside and listen to the views of the people in this area, the bereaved and everyone who understands just how important this new road will be for this this part of the North.

“The most important reason for this work is road safety, but improved transport links will also open up huge opportunities in terms of investment leading to the creation of much needed jobs and improvements to the local economy. I will continue to fight alongside campaigners until we see construction staff on site and the A5 delivered for everyone in this area.”