A5 upgrade still on the road after High Court rules against campaigners opposed to scheme

The eagerly-awaited upgrade of the A5 between Derry and Aughnacloy is still on the road after the High Court dismissed claims that an ongoing public inquiry into the need for the scheme was flawed.

Work on the new dual carriageway section is due to get underway next year, subject to the result of a public inquiry.

The decision marks a setback for the opposition group, known as the Alternative A5 Alliance, which is made up of farmers, landowners and others with an interest in the area.

They had argued there was a requirement for alternatives to be examined by the Planning Appeals Commission (PAC) and accused the Department for Infrastructure of engaging in a charade.

Counsel for the Department, said further PAC hearings this month would look at other options and enable objections to be voiced.