15 September 2025

SDLP West Tyrone MLA Daniel McCrossan has said the Infrastructure Minister must ensure there is no repeat of the court ruling that halted the A5 road upgrade.

He was speaking after the Minister confirmed the appeal hearing was due to be heard in December.

West Tyrone MLA Mr McCrossan said:

“For months I have been pressing the Minister to update the public on the status of the A5 appeal. For many people living in this area, and those who travel the A5 every day, this is their most important issue. There has been huge frustration at the lack of clarity and the silence from the Minister and her department.

“I welcome confirmation that the appeal will go ahead in December, and I also welcome the AERA Minister's commitment to intervene in this case. The Infrastructure Minister must now act to ensure there is no repeat of past failures.

“People in this community have had their hopes raised and dashed far too many times. Bereaved families have shown outstanding strength and bravery, and the Enough is Enough campaign has worked tirelessly for progress. The stakes are simply too high for another setback - this time, the Minister must deliver.”