Transport · Road / tunnel

A5 Western Transport Corridor — first phase

The first phase of the A5 Western Transport Corridor is a 55 km dual-carriageway scheme from south of Strabane to Ballygawley in Northern Ireland, including a westward extension of the A4 dual carriageway. It forms part of the wider 85 km route linking New Buildings with the border south of Aughnacloy.[1][2]

Current position

On 6 October 2026, the Court of Appeal overturned the order quashing the decision to proceed. The infrastructure minister said remaining checks, approvals and agreement on contractor costs were needed before construction could begin. A restart and opening programme has not been confirmed.

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Latest developments

Transport · 6 October 2026

Court of Appeal restores approval for the A5’s first phase

Northern Ireland’s Court of Appeal has overturned the High Court order that quashed the decision to proceed with the A5 Western Transport Corridor’s first phase. The Department for Infrastructure identifies that authorised stretch as 55 kilometres from south of Strabane to Ballygawley, including an A4 extension. Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins said the judgment would be considered and work pursued as quickly as possible. A resumed construction date and opening date have not been confirmed.

Sources