The third inquiry into the proposed A5 Dual Carriageway between New Buildings to Aughnacloy has opened today.  The proposed scheme is the largest road scheme ever to be considered in Northern Ireland and is expected to cost c. £1 billion.  The inquiry will take place in two stages — the first stage, which will address environmental issues, opens today and will last for four days; the second stage, which will address non–environmental issues, will take place in the week commencing 9 March 2020 and is expected to last for three days.  This is the third inquiry into the proposed scheme, with two previous decisions to proceed with the proposed scheme having been quashed following successful legal challenges brought the by the Alternative A5 Alliance.  

Conor Fegan is appearing on behalf of the Alternative A5 Alliance at the inquiry, instructed by Roger Watts of C & J Black Solicitors.  Richard Honey appeared at the pre-inquiry meeting and was instructed with Conor Fegan to prepare written submissions in advance of the inquiry.  Gregory Jones KC and Richard Honey were successful in quashing the statutory orders for the proposed scheme on two previous occasions on behalf of the Alternative A5 Alliance as reported in the national press: BBC, Belfast Telegraph.

Press Coverage: BBC,  Ulster Herald