Sinn Fein has welcomed a court ruling supporting the A6 L'Derry to Belfast Road project.

MLA Ian Milne said the upgrade is a "key infrastructural project".

He said: "Today's court ruling clears the way for the work to commence on the Toome to Moyola River section of the scheme.

"The A6 scheme is fundamental in enhancing connectivity, improving journey times and unlocking the economic potential of the whole region. Local communities will also see economic and social benefits resulting in employment opportunities from a scheme of this size.

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"The A6 upgrade represents an investment of over £160m and has long been a key priority for Sinn Féin.

"When completed in 2019 the project will greatly reduce travel times between Derry and Belfast, a development which will be greatly welcomed by the many thousands of people who make that journey every day."

A spokesperson for the Department for Infrastructure said: "The Department welcomes the Judicial Review Appeal Judgement upholding the original judgement in favour of the Department. Both judgements confirm the Department's robust economic, engineering and environmental assessment procedures.

"As a result of the Judgement the Department will commence construction of the Toome to Moyola River section of the scheme which had been delayed due to the legal challenge.

"The A6 scheme is fundamental in enhancing connectivity, improving journey times and unlocking the economic potential of the whole region. Local communities will also see economic and social benefits resulting in employment opportunities from a scheme of this size."

(CD/MH)