Belfast traffic chaos ‘no excuse’ for diverting funds away from A5-A6 projects: McCartney

Commentary around severe traffic disruption on a number of roads in Belfast last night should not be used as an excuse for any talk of diverting funds from the A5 and A6 road projects, Foyle Sinn Fein MLA Raymond McCartney.

Traffic was brought to a standstill in Belfast last night after a lorry shed its load on the Westlink

The incident occurred as thousands were making their way to the Northern Ireland v Croatia friendly at the Nationall Stadium (Windsor Park) and a Rod Stewart concert in the SSE Arena

Mr McCartney said: “Firstly I would like to sympathise with anyone caught up in the traffic disruption in Belfast on Tuesday night, it’s not a nice experience at any time getting stuck in traffic. “But I have been contacted by a number of angry constituents who whilst also sympathise with everyone caught up in the disruption are angry about some of the commentary around talk about of diverting funds from the A5 and A6 projects to the plans for the York Street junction. “I would like to state clearly the A5 and A6 road are key projects.

“These are two landmark infrastructure projects which will transform the economic and physical landscapes of the North West, help create jobs and grow the economy.”

Mr McCartney concluded: “They will help redress the regional disparity which existed in the North West for decades.