There have been intensive discussions on the 'road ahead' this week as an Ulster Unionist MLA joined a UU peer to look at local concerns over the proposed A5 Transport Corridor.

Lord Laird of Artigarvan and transport specialist Brian Guckian met MLA Tom Elliott this week to discuss concerns they have over being 'railroaded' into the planned cross-border route.

In particular, the meeting addressed alternative means of transportation - specifically the enlargement of the existing railway network - into the area.

"While there is no doubt in anyone's mind that the existing route is in desperate need of upgrading, the word 'upgrade' rather than 'replacement' is key.

"There was great concern at the prospect of a new build motorway tearing through acres of virgin countryside.

"Having held a series of meetings from Aughnacloy to New Buildings, it is apparent that feelings over the proposals are very mixed, and that the prospect of an upgrade is welcome, but not at any cost," the Fermanagh and South Tyrone MLA said.

"Opposition to these plans is based on a number of factors, from the environmental and personal impact of the build and of increased traffic, to the financial cost. These are all justified concerns and must be given a fair hearing.

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"During the course of the meeting we heard issues over the destruction of badger setts, the proximity of the mortorway to an Area of Special Scientific Interest (ASSI), the proposed build's elevation at certain points - giving rise to fears of dangerous cross-winds, and the £800 million cost for which funds have yet to be allocated," the MLA said.

He said that Mr Guckian offered a compelling - alternative - argument for extending and replacing the railway network, which has been long abandoned in the region.

"Interestingly, the estimated cost of such a project amounts to in the region of £300 million - substantially less than the £800 million motorway build," the UUP MLA said.

"Highlighting that the new motorway will take up eight times the land that re-opening the railways would, will use 80% more energy and produce 40 to 60% more CO2, Mr Guckian said that these plans completely oppose UK and European best practice.

"If we look to Scotland, and indeed to the wider UK, it is clear that our public transport structure is lagging far behind. To be on a par with our counterparts over the water, we should have some 600 miles of railway - instead we have just 200," he continued.

"It is clear that our dependence on the road network, without an attractive public transport alternative, in turn breeds greater dependence which is costly both in terms of finance and environment.

"The A5 undoubtedly needs huge improvement, but the traffic levels simply don't justify a motorway and indeed a development of this size is contrary to contemporary best practice, which seeks to cut - not encourage - car usage.

"I will be lobbying the Minister to look again at this issue, in the firm belief that where there is a will to find a better solution, there is always a way."

See: Murphy Allays A5 Corridor Concerns

See: North West Gateway Boost Welcomed

(BMcC/GK)