The letter highlights serious concerns that the ruling surrounding the A5 may have wider implications for other major infrastructure schemes across Northern Ireland, including the A1.

Speaking on the issue, Carla Lockhart said:

“I have long championed the A1 upgrade project as a vital investment in road safety, regional connectivity, and economic growth. It is a project that is not just overdue, but one that the public overwhelmingly supports. This stretch of road is one of the most dangerous in the country. 

In light of the recent court ruling on the A5, I have written to the Minister to ask whether any additional delays or legal reviews are now anticipated for the A1. Communities and commuters across Upper Bann deserve clarity and reassurance that this critical scheme will not be stalled yet again by administrative or legal uncertainty.

I have asked the Minister to outline what steps are being taken to keep the A1 upgrade on track, and to ensure that any learning from the A5 case is quickly applied to avoid unnecessary setbacks.

The safety record of the A1 speaks for itself, further delay is not an option. I will continue to press for firm timelines and clear delivery plans from the Department.”

The A1 project, which includes key upgrades to junctions and road safety features along the Belfast-Dublin corridor, has faced repeated delays over recent years. Carla Lockhart has pledged to maintain pressure on the Department to prioritise its delivery.