The SDLP has called for support funding from the Irish Government for the A2 Buncrana Road Dualling project.

The proposed project would ease traffic congestion connecting L'Derry and Donegal, providing a four lane road between Pennyburn roundabout and Skeoge roundabout, a dual carriageway between Skeoge roundabout and Elagh Business Park.

Foyle MLA Mark Durkan wrote to the Transport Minister in the South, asking would the Government "consider co-funding this scheme that will reduce travel times, congestion, pollution and risk on this busy cross-border route."

Mr Durkan brought attention to the project after the close of the consultation on the North West Transport Plan.

He also said plans must focus on a holistic approach to reducing congestion and increasing sustainable transport options.

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"This consultation process must be more than a formality. The North West has endured inadequate infrastructure for too long, failing to match the modern and thriving region we’re working to build," he said.

"We’ve seen a lackadaisical approach from the Minister and department in terms of progressing the A2 Buncrana Road Dualling project, which once again, has been put on the back burner.

"People have been told that the A2 project 'might happen' for over 50 years and in that time this road has only become busier and busier. With surrounding road closures, huge recent development in the area and more to come, this project should’ve been delivered long ago.

"We must also look at improving this road in a modern context with improved public transport links that meet the demands of modern life.

"I've written to the Transport Minister in the South to ask if the Irish Government would consider co-funding this scheme that will reduce travel times, congestion, pollution and risk on this busy cross-border route."

He added: "Huge numbers of people from both sides of the border use this road every single day and I commend the Irish Government for stepping up and providing funding for vital Infrastructure projects where the UK Government and Executive have continually failed."