A decision to further delay a major road redevelopment scheme in Derry has been met with criticism from a local councillor.
At a recent meeting with Derry City and Strabane District Council, the Department of Infrastructure (DfI) revealed that a dualling project for the Buncrana Road had been put "under review".
The £85m scheme, which was first promised over a decade ago, would stretch 4.4km from Bridgend in Co Donegal to Pennyburn.
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DfI said the decision was made "to ensure it aligns with the Department’s priorities for future transport" and due to funding limitations.
Divisional Roads Manager, Mr Daniel Healy confirmed that while the project had 'advanced significantly' in previous years, it was now up for review.
He told councillors: "With the uncertainty around budgets it is important to monitor all activities within the constrained funding available going forward and difficult decisions may need to be made to re-align activities within funding levels as the year progresses.
"Despite these budget uncertainties, the Department will continue to develop local transport and safety schemes and maintenance programmes to enhance safety, improve traffic progression and provide measures for pedestrians and cyclists.”
However, speaking to MyDerry, SDLP councillor Brian Tierney said the determination by the Department was "extremely disappointing", adding that progress made on the road over the last decade had been "painfully slow".
He said: “Given this important work at the Buncrana Road has been discussed and with the department for well over a decade it is extremely disappointing that progress has been so painfully slow.
"While I acknowledge it would be an expensive project and involve considerable upheaval, news that it is now “under review” means little prospect of work starting anytime soon.
“Anyone who lives in our city or regularly travels on this road knows how busy it is and how transformative this widening project would be.
"The Buncrana Road connects Derry with Donegal and with schools, supermarkets and housing in the area we need to see some progress to address these long-standing issues for both residents and visitors to our city.
“We will continue to engage with the department and make the case for this vital project until we have a timescale in place.”
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