UFU response to A5 court ruling

The Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU) has responded to today’s court ruling on the A5 road project, calling for certainty for affected farmers and landowners as the scheme moves forward.

UFU deputy president Glenn Cuddy said, “The UFU has always recognised the importance of improved infrastructure, particularly where it enhances public safety. Following today’s court ruling, farmers and landowners now need certainty so they can move forward with confidence and with respect for the land involved.

“For more than a decade, affected farmers and landowners have been left in limbo, unable to plan for the future or invest fully in their businesses due to the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the project.

“Now that there is greater clarity, the Department for Infrastructure (DfI) must urgently review land valuations and provide certainty to farm families. The UFU has consistently pressed for fair compensation that reflects current market values, and we now need to see action from the Department without delay.

“As plans progress, farmers and landowners must be supported and fully included in communications relating to the A5 project. The UFU will continue its engagement with DfI and will host a series of member clinics in the coming weeks to provide advice and support. Further details will be issued shortly.”

The UFU will continue to seek reform of the vesting process to ensure farmers are afforded greater protection and fairness in future infrastructure projects.