Traffic delays expected this weekend as up to 400 tractors to travel through Derry for inheritance tax rally

Around 400 tractors are expected to travel through Derry city this Saturday in protest against the Inheritance Tax changes to Agricultural and Business Property Relief.

The tractor run, which is organised by the Ulster Farmers Union, will take place on Saturday, January 25.

It will involve a convoy of tractors travelling into the city, and starts at 2pm from Temple Road/Lisahally. After following a route from there, into and through the Waterside and cityside, it’s planned to make its way back to Temple Road/Lisahally for 4pm.

According to the application made to the Parades Commission, 400 tractors are expected to take part.

Similar tractor runs will be held in Omagh, Enniskillen, Armagh, Lisburn and Ballymena on the same day.

The event is part of a UK wide day of action in protest against the Inheritance Tax changes to Agricultural and Business Property Relief.

This activity is part of a wider plan to highlight the detrimental damage that the family farm tax will have in the lead up to the UK government’s spring statement in March 2025, and the UK farming unions are demanding formal changes to their plans.

While the activity taking place across all parts of the UK is likely to differ slightly, the key unified message is the same: unless the UK government halts its deeply flawed family farm tax proposals, they will damage and threaten family farms and, in turn, undermine UK food production.

The UFU say this is a day for all farmers, their families, and supporters to come together, make their voices heard, and demand change.

UFU President William Irvine said:  “This is more than just a protest – it’s an opportunity for people to come together, show their support, and contribute to this challenge. It is also an opportunity to raise money for charities and we encourage everyone attending to bring cash for charity donations on the day. Let’s make this a day of action, solidarity, and generosity!”

“The UFU is proud to stand alongside our colleagues in the NFU, NFU Scotland, and NFU Cymru as we demand immediate changes to the government’s proposed tax plans. Together, we will make sure this issue is front and centre in the lead-up to the UK government’s spring statement in March 2025.  Farmers are the backbone of this nation, and we will not be silenced. Join us on 25th January for a day of unity, action, and change.”

The PSNI has advised motorists to plan for possible delays ahead of Saturday's event in Derry.

A spokesperson said: “Motorists are advised to plan for possible delays, and drive with extra care if in an area as the convoy passes through. Police will be on duty and deal with any traffic-related issues that arise. 

“The route is from Lisahally market, Temple Road, Maydown Road, Clooney carriageway, Crescent Link, Dungiven Road, Glendermott Road towards Duke Street and onto Craigavon Bridge, Carlisle Road into The Diamond, Shipquay Street, Foyle Embankment, Strand Road, Culmore Road, Foyle Bridge and back towards Temple Road/Lisahally.”

For more information, farmers should contact their local UFU group office.