Council Chair expresses profound disappointment and dismay following High Court Judgement on A5 Western Transport Corridor

The Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Councillor Barry McElduff, has expressed profound disappointment and dismay following today’s High Court decision not to allow the A5 Western Transport Corridor project to proceed at this time.

Speaking following the judgement, Councillor McElduff said:

“The High Court judgement is deeply disappointing for our District and more widely for citizens across the North West of Ireland and beyond. The A5 Western Transport Corridor is a critical infrastructure project that would save lives and create economic opportunity.

Today my thoughts are with all those who have been bereaved by, or those with life changing injuries as a result of, accidents on the A5. I share the anger felt by people across the North West.

I also wish to express my deep disappointment regarding the economic impact that today’s decision will bring, including the impact to the contractors and local sub-contractors who were in an advanced state of readiness to commence works.

In this context of the decision, I would wish to acknowledge the work of the Enough is Enough campaign, and all those within the GAA and wider sporting community, whose tireless efforts have ensured that the A5 scheme remains at the forefront of public attention.

I am mindful of the concerted lobbying and advocacy efforts of the A5/N2 Cross Border Council Committee, in which Fermanagh and Omagh District Council is joined by elected members from Derry City and Strabane, Mid Ulster, Donegal and Monaghan County Councils.

Our Council remains determined and steadfast in our commitment to seeing this critical project delivered and will consider the judgement in its entirety.”