Infrastructure Minister Chris Hazzard has announced his decision to proceed with the A6 Randalstown to Castledawson dualling scheme.
The £160 million upgrade will provide approximately 14.7km of new dual carriageway - 7.3km between Randalstown and Toome and 7.4km between Toome and Castledawson.
The news has been welcomed by Foyle Sinn Fein MLA, Raymond McCartney, who travelled on this section of road on a daily basis knew it as one of the biggest traffic bottle necks on the A6, causing tailbacks for miles at peak times of the day.
He added: This work will go a long way in addressing that.
“The dualling of the main Derry to Belfast road will also be a major factor in improving the economic fortunes of the region and the bypass of Dungiven will have a major environmental impact on the town.
Announcing his decision, Mr Hazzard said: “One of my key priorities over the next five years is redressing the North’s infrastructure deficit, particularly west of the Bann.
“I am determined to contribute towards economy growth in a regionally balanced way and I believe it is vital that infrastructure projects such as this are prioritized.
“My commitment to this area in delivering this £160 million flagship investment will strengthen the links between Belfast and Derry and positively develop the A6 as a key transport route into the wider North West area.
“Road users and the local community will directly benefit from this new all-purpose dual carriageway as it will reduce journey times and improve road safety.
“I am confident that my decision to proceed with the scheme will come as welcome news for the construction industry and I look forward to continuing work to deliver the project with the Joint Venture contractor for the project Grahams/Farrans.”
Photo shows the dual carriageway at Toome which will link the two new dualling schemes.
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