The development of the A5 road is set to proceed, the Department for Infrastructure has confirmed.
A scheme to turn the road into a dual carriageway was first approved by the Executive in 2007 but it has been held up by legal challenges and uncertainty over funding.
There have been more than 50 deaths on the road, which links Londonderry with Aughnacloy in Co Tyrone, since 2006.
Earlier this year, Infrastructure Minister John O’Dowd confirmed to the Assembly that he would be recommending that the planned upgrade of the A5 road should proceed.
Announcing the news on Wednesday evening, Mr O’Dowd said the first phase of the scheme which will be completed is between Strabane and Ballygawley.
“This will cover 34 miles of the total 53 miles; it is my intention to make a decision on the remaining sections at the earliest opportunity,” he said.
“This section has had the most fatalities. We will continue to address the PAC recommendations on the other two sections.
“The project will provide for critically important infrastructure, create jobs, benefit the economy and improve journey times.”
Standing alongside Mr O’Dowd, First Minister Michelle O’Neill paid tribute to the families of those who had died in the interim period.
“Every life lost on the road is one too many,” she said.
“There have been many setbacks on this journey and they have been well-documented, but today we have turned a new chapter.”
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Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly said: “Today’s announcement brings much-needed certainty, will improve connectivity and address road safety issues.
Sinn Féin MLA for West Tyrone, Órfhlaith Begley, said the news marked a “hugely positive day” for the area.
“My first thoughts are with each and every family who have tragically lost a loved one on this stretch of road. Today is for them and also in memory of those who have lost their lives,” she said.
“Transforming this road will save lives, create jobs and significantly cut journey times between the north-west and Dublin.
“Sinn Féin have made promoting regional balance a priority since our ministers took up office, and this is another step towards creating a fairer, more balanced economy.
“I will continue to work with the executive and the other parties to ensure this game-changing project is delivered in full.”
Fermanagh South Tyrone MLA Deborah Erskine said the road would deliver “essential road safety improvements”.
“Today’s agreement by the Northern Ireland Executive to proceed with the A5 road project is welcome,” said the DUP representative.
“Foremost in our minds today are the lives lost on the A5 and the families who grieve the loss of loved ones.
“The planned road upgrade will deliver essential road safety improvements and will help save lives on what is an extremely busy arterial route.
“As the project moves towards the tender stage and construction phase, it is essential that the Department builds upon the engagement already underway with landowners in a constructive manner.
“A number of weeks ago, I hosted a very positive meeting between those whose land will be vested and the Minister.
“It is important that this constructive engagement continues, and that the very valid concerns of landowners are addressed. I will continue to work with all parties involved in this process.”
Earlier on Wednesday, SDLP MLA Daniel McCrossan has said work must begin immediately on the long-awaited A5 upgrade after reports it is expected to be approved by the Executive on Wednesday.
BBC NI has reported that the work will be completed on a phased basis.
Mr McCrossan said approval from the Executive for the safety upgrade was a “momentous day” and that his thoughts are with the “families of everyone who has lost a loved one on this road”.
“This has been a very long journey – far too long – and their strength and courage has been a constant source of inspiration and we would never have seen this delivered without them,” he said.
“The campaign to build the A5 has been my number one priority throughout my time in politics and I have carried on the efforts of my SDLP predecessors in working with everyone to see these important upgrades carried out.
“Campaigners deserve huge credit for facing down every obstacle and making it absolutely clear they would not stop until people could safely travel on the A5.”
The West Tyrone MLA added that the Executive must provide assurances that the A5 will be delivered “in full”.
“We have seen repeatedly in the past how phased projects of this nature have stalled or been beset with delays,” he said.
“After such a long wait we need work to start – and finish – as soon as possible and I will not stop pushing this issue until these improvements are delivered and this road is fully built.”
News Catch Up – Tuesday 1st October