NI Transport Minister Conor Murphy has reaffirmed his department's commitment to a £1 billion infrastructure investment plan for Londonderry and the North West.

The minister reassured the communities that the improvement schemes are underway, by highlighting that 300 people are already tasked with progressing the A5 and A6 schemes.

Mr Murphy also announced an £86m investment in the railway line between Belfast and Derry, with the aim of reducing times by half an hour. 



At a meeting with the city's council and chamber of trade and commerce, the Minister said: "Investment in transport is a key driver of economic development and I'm determined to address regional disparities in infrastructure investment. This planned investment of over £1 billion is a real commitment to high quality road and public transport linkages and is crucial to sustain economic growth and competitiveness."

"Several key roads schemes will significantly benefit the North West. The scale of the A5 project is unprecedented in Ireland, providing 88km of new dual carriageway from Aughnacloy to Derry at an estimated cost in excess of £600 million, significantly improving journey times and safety on the journey to and from Dublin."

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"Already some 200 people are working on the project and a preferred route will be chosen by mid 2009."

"I welcome the £400 million contribution from the Irish Government which will assist in funding this A5 project."

The minister also outlined plans for a £300 million A6 Londonderry to Dungiven dual carriageway. Over 100 people are currently developing route options for this 30km scheme and after further consultation the announcement of the preferred route is expected by summer of next year.

Mr Murphy said public inquiries into the schemes from Castledawson to Toome and Toome to Randalstown had been held last year.

When these schemes are completed, around 75% of the road from Derry to Belfast will be to a minimum of dual carriageway standard, according to the Roads Service.

The minister said a further study will commence to look at potential linkages from the A6 at Drumahoe to the A5. This, Mr Murphy said, will take into account the potential for improved linkages to the west.

The minister also indicated that the A2 Broadbridge scheme which will improve access to the City of Derry Airport, should be substantially completed by 2010/11. 



The minister discussed how, when he came into office last year, he had removed a restriction on investment on the railway line.

"Around £86 million will be invested in infrastructure and additional trains for the Belfast to Derry line over the next five years," said Mr Murphy. 


"This will involve a complete relay of the line between Coleraine and Derry, the provision of a passing loop and the introduction of a further two new train sets for the route. This will allow more frequent train services with a commuter service going into Derry before 9am for the first time and will allow journey times to Belfast to be reduced by half an hour."

"Investments in new trains have already had a major impact on passenger numbers. I am determined to build on this and to provide the basis for a first class railway service for the people of the North West," he added.

(PR/JM)